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Sylvia Mae Ver Hoef, 103, of Holland, met her Lord and Savior on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Sylvia Ver Hoef, 103

Sylvia Mae Ver Hoef, 103, of Holland, met her Lord and Savior on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Sylvia was a charter member of Holland Heights Christian Reformed Church. Through the years, she worked at a variety of places including Heinz in Holland, manufacturing airplane parts for World War II, two bakeries, and the church. She raised her family and attended every sporting event of her grandchildren that she could. 

In retirement, she and her husband volunteered for World Renew. She was a faithful volunteer for Holland Hospital, Holland Heights Church, and the Center For Women in Transition, all where she used her gentle encouraging spirit to be a calming presence to patients, individuals, and families alike. 

Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband, Julius "Juke" Ver Hoef; son-in-law, Paul De Weerd; son-in-law, Dennis Overbeek, brother, Floyd Daning; sister, Maxine Biolette; and sister, Beverly Bauder.

She is survived by her children, Judy Overbeek, David and Rachel Ver Hoef, Marilyn De Weerd VanderWilp, and Kathy and Paul Van Lente; grandchildren, Steve and Kim Overbeek, Becky and Steve Laninga, Ryan Overbeek, Julie and Todd Russell, Kelly and John Foley, Deb and Shaun Bloem, Tom and Emily De Weerd, Greg and Mary De Weerd, Michael and Kelly Van Lente, Heather and Tom Bouathong, and Sarah and Chris Timmer; 31 great-grandchildren; sister, Bonnie Kragt; brother-in-law, Edward Bauder; nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Visitation with the family is 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Holland Heights Christian Reformed Church, 836 East 8th St., Holland. A Celebration of Life will be at 2 p.m. that same day, also at Holland Heights CRC, with Rev. George DeJong and Rev. Ralph Beidler officiating. Burial will take place in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Sylvia's honor may be given to World Renew, a ministry of the Christian Reformed Church, at worldrenew.net/about-us or by mail to 8970 Byron Commerce Drive SW, Byron Center, MI 49315.

Phyllip Hamming, 87

Phyllip A. Hamming, 87, arrived at his heavenly home on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026.

Phil owned Crawler Rebuilders with his brothers John, Alfred, and Perk, who have all predeceased him. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Diane (Kiel) Hamming, in 2013 and his son-in-law, Rick LePard, in 2019. 

Phil is survived by his wife Marcia (Miedema-Palmbos), his children, Darrin and Sheri, their five children and three grandchildren; Darcy and Keith Payne, their two children and three grandchildren; Darlyn LePard, her three children and four grandchildren. Marcia's four children and spouses, 15 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren also mourn Phil's death.

When Phil first introduced himself to Marcia's children, he laid out the facts of his life - how he played fastpitch softball, his work on tracks of heavy-equipment (his physique indicated his strength), but most importantly, he was a child of God. 

Phil had a hearty laugh, and he found humor in everything. He will be remembered for his beautiful, rich baritone singing voice, a natural God-given talent that he used for God's glory throughout his life. 

A memorial service was held Wednesday, March 4 at Beaverdam Christian Reformed Church, 5166 64th Ave., Hudsonville. Private burial was in Blendon Township Cemetery.

Marcia's church family and any others who wish to greet her may do so following morning worship at Beaverdam CRC on Sunday, March 8, from 11 to 12:30 pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to Emmanuel Hospice. Arrangements by the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Paul Volkers, 91

Paul Jay Volkers, 91, of West Olive, passed away on Friday, February 27, 2026.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 6 at 11 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 389 James St., Holland. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m. at Peace Lutheran.

A committal service will be held after the funeral at 1 p.m. at Restlawn Memorial Gardens, 994 Paw Paw Dr., Holland.

Mary Ann Geurink, 69

Mary Ann Geurink, 69, of Overisel, passed away Friday, Feb. 27, 2026.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Sherwin, in 1999; her daughter, Sarah, in 2025; her infant son, Arlyn; and her parents, Eli and Margie Kalman.

Mary was born on Oct. 24, 1956, to Eli and Margie Kalman and was raised on the family dairy farm in Forest Grove. She was a member of Overisel Reformed Church; and she worked as a receptionist in a dental office for 22 years. Mary never lost her Christian faith even through the struggles and loss she endured.

She is survived by her children and grandchildren, Scott and Michelle Geurink (Kelsey, Morgan, and Riley), and David and Emily Geurink (Aubree, Reese, and Jolee); sister, Marcia Harmsen; sister-in-law, Sandy and Mark Hoffman; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service to honor Mary’s life will be held at 12 noon Friday, March 6 at Overisel Reformed Church, 4706 142nd Ave., Holland. Interment will be in East Holland Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. today at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer Society.

Edward Van Timmeren, 92

Edward “Lou” Van Timmeren, 92, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026.

Edward was born to Edward Sr. and Dolores (Alari) Van Timmeren in Los Angeles, Calif., on Jan. 14, 1934. Edward’s parents moved to Eastmanville, where he spent the rest of his childhood, when he was 6. Later in life, after returning from two years of Army service in Alaska, Ed married the love of his life, Janice, in 1960. They were blessed with many joyful years together here in West Michigan, working, playing, and raising their two boys, Edward R. and Eric.

Edward is deeply missed by his children, Edward R. and Nicole (Folkening) Van Timmeren, and Eric D. Van Timmeren, as well as his extended family and friends.

Edward was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janice I. Van Timmeren, and his beloved sister and brother – Jackie (Van Timmeren) Glass and her husband Wayne Glass, and Ken and Jan Van Timmeren. 

A brief memorial service will be held Sunday, March 8 at 2 p.m., with a time of fellowship and refreshments to follow until 4 p.m. at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Eugene Gingrich, 80

Eugene L. Gingrich, 80, of Zeeland, passed away on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026.

Eugene was born on June 1, 1945, in Fremont to Harrison and Mildred Gingrich. He enjoyed a fulfilling career as an engineer, first at Robertshaw Controls and later at Gentex Corporation, from which he retired after 20 years.

Eugene was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, particularly caring for his beloved wife, Marilyn, during her courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. The couple was active members of Westshore Christian Church prior to her diagnosis. Additionally, Eugene was a ham radio enthusiast as well as target shooting.

He is survived by his children, Mary Bolton and Keith Franklin; grandchildren, Steve Franklin, Levi Franklin, Christina Franklin, Justin Franklin, and Lucretia Collins; 14 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren; and daughter-in-law, Jan Crothers.

Eugene was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn Gingrich, in 2023; and his son, Steven A. Franklin, in 2014.

A memorial visitation celebrating Eugene and Marilyn will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 14 at Westshore Christian Church, 3062 120th Ave., Holland. 

Steven DeLange, 70

Steven R. DeLange, 70, of Holland, passed away Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Steve grew up in Kentwood with his five younger brothers. He attended East Kentwood High School and worked in various construction trades and ended his career truck driving for Al-Van Motor Freight. 

Steve loved nature and enjoyed many activities in the beauty that God created. He loved sharing those passions with his family by including them, whether it was fishing for salmon on Lake Michigan on board the Donna Mae, going on hunting trips, and even teaching how to reload your own ammo. 

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Donna DeLange; son-in-law, Randy Kruisenga; and nephew, Aaron DeLange.

Steve is survived by his partner, Jodie Gulch; children, Eric DeLange, Stephanie Kruisenga, Sarah Jelsema, Emily DeLange, Adam DeLange and Allison DeLange; stepchildren, Johnathan Gulch and Melinda Gulch; grandchildren, Maddie, Brooklynn, Mason, Hudson, Shayla, Lauryn, Isabella, Jaxon, Abree, Ryann, Logan, and two more on the way; siblings, Jon DeLange, Don DeLange, Alex DeLange, Jonathan DeLange and Ben DeLange; and stepmother, Carol DeLange.

Visitation took place Friday, Feb. 27, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Burial and a graveside committal service was held Saturday, Feb. 28 at Boynton Cemetery in Byron Township.

Dorothy Bareman, 86

Dorothy Bareman, 86, of Zeeland, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026. 

Born on Dec. 25, 1939, in Holland, Dorothy was a cherished member of her community and family. Dorothy and Al Bareman were blessed with 59 years of marriage. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister, always placing her family at the center of her life. 

Dorothy could often be found in her flower garden both at her home in Zeeland and at Sandy Pines. People would always stop to chat with her and comment how beautiful her flowers were. Dorothy was a member at Sandy Pines for more than 45 years where she enjoyed spending her time with family and friends simply sitting around campfires as well as other activities like the flea markets to Sunday worship. 

Dorothy is survived by her sons, Ken Bareman, David (Sally) Bareman and Tim (Roxanne) Bareman; sisters, Carol Kragt and Phyllis Dyke; grandchildren, Torry (James) Gargano, Jaycob (Leah) Bareman, Chad (Brittany) Bareman, Andrea (Chad) Czyzewicz, Ryan Bareman and Alisa (Logan) Windham; and great-grandchildren, Keagan, Savanah, Jaxson, Tye, Beckett, Everett, Brooklyn and Camryn.

Funeral services were held Thursday, Feb. 26 at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland. Dorothy was laid to rest at Restlawn Memorial Gardens, 994 Paw Paw Dr., Holland.

Memorial contributions can be made to Sandy Pines Lakeside Chapel, 3794 Rain Tree, Hudsonville, MI 49426.

Deacon Essenburg, 8 mo.

Deacon Randall Essenburg, beloved son of Mitchell and Jamie Essenburg, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 at just 8 months of age.

Born on June 4, 2025, Deacon brought immeasurable joy to everyone who knew and loved him. Deacon loved cuddles and had just learned to pull your cheek toward him for one of his signature sloppy kisses.

Deacon is survived by his parents, Jamie and Mitch Essenburg; his older sisters, Jayden and Madison; grandparents, Randy and Roxanne Essenburg, and Randy and Hilda Westrate; great-grandparents, Arend and Janet Buitenhuis; aunts and uncles, Katie, Kevin, Travis, Stephanie, Cody, Laura and Sam; and cousins Janelle, Corbin and Hailey. 

Deacon was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Nellie and Chet Westrate, Simon and Joan Essenburg, and Kenneth and Helen VanDerKooi.

A service of joy (memorial service) was held on Friday, Feb. 27 at Foundry Church, 425 100th Ave., Zeeland.

In 1979, director Ivan Reitman directed the comedy “Meatballs,” a story about counselors in training at a camp in Canada.

By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record

In 1979, director Ivan Reitman directed the comedy “Meatballs,” a story about counselors in training at a camp in Canada.

The movie was a breakout hit for Bill Murray, the comedian who would go on to star in movies like “Ghostbusters,” “Stripes,” and “Groundhog Day.”

The movie features a famous rant by Murray to inspire campers from the fictional North Star Camp in their athletic competition against rival Mohawk Camp, which they are losing by a large margin after the first day. Murray begins to chant, “It just doesn’t matter! It just doesn’t matter!” Soon, the campers pick up on the chant and scream it to the top of their lungs.

Several thousand years before Bill Murray’s rant, someone else came to the conclusion that so much in life “just doesn’t matter.”

His name was Solomon. A lot of you know he was the son of King David – you know, the one who slew Goliath, who wrote many of the Psalms, and who got in trouble for messing around with the wife of one of his leading military men. 

A lot of you know that Solomon built the first Temple in Jerusalem. He was considered the wisest and richest man of his generation. He is credited with many of the sayings in the book of Proverbs.

And yet…

Solomon reached a point in his life where he essentially said, “it just doesn’t matter.” He called it by other words – depending on the version of the Bible you read, he used words like “vanity” or “meaningless” to describe what his life had become.

In fact, Solomon opens the book of Ecclesiastes, which he is generally credited with writing, with these words:

“Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless. What do people gain from all their labors at which they toil under the sun?” (Ecclesiastes 1:2-3)

Later, he calls all things “wearisome” (1:8) and that “there is nothing new under the sun.” (1:9)

Solomon tried to gain meaning through acquiring wisdom and knowledge, only to conclude this was “chasing after the wind.” (1:14, 17)

Then he tried to gain meaning through work, through accomplishment, through pleasure.

“I undertook great projects. I built houses for myself and planted vineyards. I made gardens and parks and planted all kinds of fruit trees in them. I made reservoirs to water groves of flourishing trees. I bought male and female slaves and had other slaves who were born in my house. I also owned more herds and flocks than anyone in Jerusalem before me. I amassed silver and gold for myself and the treasure of kings and provinces. I acquired male and female singers, and a harem as well – the delights of a man’s heart.” (2:1-8)

But in 2:11, Solomon writes “when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.”

Many of us, maybe not even consciously, have defined ourselves by the work we do. How many of us have come to a place where we have worked hard, put in the overtime, sacrificed time with our families, because we wanted to build our careers and provide for those we love? We worked for the bigger house, the car or truck with all the bells and whistles, the boat, the vacations, the healthy retirement fund. 

And then when we get the bigger house, the car/truck, the boat, etc. – sometimes we are left asking questions like “is that all there is?” We ask “does it matter?” Is all we’re doing meaningless, a chasing after the wind?

Don’t get me wrong. Work, I believe, is a good thing that God gave us when He created humanity. However, I believe some of us have made work an idol and have made acquiring stuff an idol – to the detriment of our faith and to our families. 

I believe God gave us a rhythm of work and rest – starting with creating the heavens and the earth and all living things over six days, then resting on the seventh day. One of the Ten Commandments handed down from God to Moses says we are to take at least one day off from our labors a week – we call that Sabbath, which is the Hebrew word that literally means “to cease, to stop working.”

So, what really matters?

You were created in God’s image. You have immense, unmeasurable value simply because you were created in the image of your Creator. You are loved beyond measure. God demonstrated that love for us in that even though we are often a mess because of our sin, Jesus died for us so that we could be reconciled to God. You don’t have to work to earn God’s love for you. 

Solomon closes out Ecclesiastes with a reminder to us: “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” (12:13b-14)

That is the stuff that really matters.

When was the last time you felt overwhelmed? 

By Sarah Sanderson

Read: 2 Kings 6:15-23
“Then Elisha prayed and said, ‘O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.’” (v. 17)

When was the last time you felt overwhelmed? 

Sometimes, global or national events seem scary and out of control. Other times, troubles hit closer to home - a lost job, an unwelcome diagnosis, a fraying relationship - in a way that feels just as terrifying. 

When all we see is bad news looming over us, we can lose any sense of perspective on the nearness of God.

Elisha’s servant in 2 Kings 6 felt overwhelmed. All he could see when he looked out in the morning was an enemy army surrounding his city. He had no idea where to go or what to do. 

But Elisha kept his cool. The prophet knew that there was no reason to be afraid because he knew that God was present even in this. So Elisha prayed, “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see” (v. 17). 

Suddenly the servant could see the truth. God’s army was real, present, and more powerful than the servant could’ve ever imagined. Now the servant understood what Elisha meant when he said, “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them” (v. 16).

Do you believe that God is real and present with you right now, whatever you’re facing? Do you believe that the power of God is greater than anything you may be up against? Do you need God to open your eyes today to show you how he’s ready to move on your behalf?

As you pray, ask God to open your eyes to his presence in your life.

—————

Sarah Sanderson is the author of “The Place We Make: Breaking the Legacy of Legalized Hate.” 

Jerry Allen Folkert, 83, of Allegan, passed away on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026.

Jerry Folkert, 83

Jerry Allen Folkert, 83, of Allegan, passed away on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026.

Jerry grew up near Hamilton where as a young man he developed a love for fixing things. He used this skill early in his career at the lumber yard of Hamilton Farm Bureau, as a farmer on the family farm, and later as a maintenance technician/welder for Padnos in Holland for 21 years. 

Upon retirement, he enjoyed volunteering at the Michigan Flywheelers Museum, collecting and restoring antique engines, and spending time fishing on the lake by his house. He was a great storyteller, truly enjoyed fixing anything for anyone, and was proud of his service in the Army as a military policeman in Germany from 1964 to 1967.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife in 2022, Jeanne Folkert; brother, Lloyd and Belva Folkert; brother, Bernard Folkert, and infant brother, Donald.

He is survived by his children, Mike and Leah Folkert of Holland and Susan and Bede Drieberg of Salt Lake City, Utah; grandchildren, Emily Folkert, Jerod Folkert, Ethan Folkert and Xavier Drieberg; sister-in-law, Phyllis and Mel Hogan; brothers-in-law, Vern Mouw, and Jim and Mary Mouw; sister-in-law, Barb and Ken Helbling; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial services including military honors are at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28 at Grace Fellowship Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 435 W. Main St., Zeeland, with Rev. Michael Schout officiating. Burial to take place in Riverside Cemetery.

Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27 at Langeland Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland.

Memorial contributions in Jerry's honor may be given to Grace Fellowship Orthodox Presbyterian Church at gracefellowshipopc.com, or by mail to 435 W. Main St., Zeeland, MI 49464.

Kenneth Elhart, 96

Kenneth Wayne Elhart, age 96, of Holland, passed away Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026 at Freedom Village.

Ken was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church of Holland and served on their board of directors and finance committee. He also was an associate member of First United Methodist Church of Hobe Sound, Fla., where he volunteered in their Mission Store. 

Ken was the founder of Elhart Automotive Campus of Holland and served on the Dealer Advisory Board for Pontiac, GMC Truck, Dodge and Jeep. In addition, Ken served on the First Michigan Bank Board of Directors, was past president of the Holland Board of Public Works, past director of the Holland Chamber of Commerce, and served in the United States Coast Guard. 

Born on May 19, 1929 during the depression, Ken lived a life full of incredibly challenging and yet rewarding times. His unwavering faith as he puts it carried him through nearly ten decades. In Ken's words shared with his Methodist Church in Hobe Sound 15 years ago, “I realize how truly blessed I am. In addition to good health, I am blessed with a wonderful wife, a loving family of children and grandchildren, and great friends. Oh yes, there have been rocky times during my lifetime but they have made me realize the importance of putting my trust and faith in God to help me through those difficult experiences. A statement that I carry with me is this:

In happy moments, praise God;

In difficult moments, seek God;

In painful moments, trust God;

And every moment, thank God.”

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret; son, Wayne Elhart; and sisters, Joann Vermetti and Clara Vander Laan.

Ken is survived by his son, Jeffrey (Cherie) Elhart; daughter-in-law, Kathy Elhart; stepsons, R. Michael (Helen) Redman and W. Scott (Kimberley) Redman; grandchildren, Jacob (Danielle) Elhart, Benjamin (Allison) Elhart, Jasmine Redman, Mariah Redman, Colin Redman and Sean Redman; great-grandchildren, Maeson Elhart, Avery Elhart and Malcom Elhart

Funeral services are planned for 11 a.m. today at First United Methodist Church, 57 W. 10th St., Holland, with Rev. Tania Dozeman officiating. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wayne Elhart “be nice” Memorial Fund c/o The Community Foundation of Holland/Zeeland Area.

Marjorie Barendse, 95

Marjorie Ruth Barendse, 95, of Zeeland, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026.

Marjorie was born on March 5, 1930.

No funeral arrangements had been announced as of press time. Arrangements are by Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland.

Kimberly Ward, 68

Kimberly Ellen (Bruxvoort) Ward, 68, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026. 

Kimberly was born on July 15, 1957 to Herman and Jean (Dykstra) Bruxvoort in Cutlerville. Kimberly was a dedicated child development teacher and loved playing and teaching her classes. 

Kimberly enjoyed spending time with family, whether it was family dinners, camping, trips or wine tasting. Another treasured pasttime was cross-stitching stockings for her kids, grandkids, and nieces and nephews. 
She was a member of Waypoint Church in Zeeland, singing with their praise team.

Kimberly was preceded in death by her mother, Jean (Dykstra) Bruxvoort; and younger brother, Timothy Bruxvoort.

She is survived by her children, Virginia (Noah) Ganzevoort, Jeremy Ward and Brian (Danielle) Ward; grandchildren, Josephine and Trisana Ganzevoort, Justin Ward, Austin Ward, Jessica Ward and Joslyn (Caleb) Vela; great-grandchild, Nicole Vela; longtime significant other, Charles Stefanich; father, Herman Bruxvoort; siblings, Debra Everts, Kathy (Klay) Watson and Thomas (Diana) Bruxvoort; sister-in-law, Donna (Timothy) Bruxvoort; and many nieces and nephews. 

Kimberly will be remembered at a memorial service on Sunday, March 8 at 2 p.m. at Waypoint Church, 3041 96th Ave., Zeeland, with a luncheon to follow.

Evan Ledbetter, 44

Evan James Ledbetter, 44, of Wellston, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026. 

Evan was born March 31, 1981 in Zeeland, and attended school in Holland.

Evan would find peace enjoying the sights and sounds of nature while walking in the woods near his home, and searching for unusual rocks and stones along the shores of Lake Michigan and Man-Made Lake in Manistee.

He is survived by his children, Alyson Rae and Elliot Edward Marcellus Ledbetter, residing with their mother, Nicole, in Wyoming, Mich.; his mother, Bonnie Bushaw of Wellston; father, Ronald (Terry) Ledbetter of Manistee; sister, Cristy Lee Woods and her family, of Franklin, Tenn.; aunts, Dian Ledbetter of Manistee and Judy Drier of Scottville; several cousins residing in Michigan and Indiana; and his precious cat, Sailor.

A private family memorial funeral service will take place at the Terwilliger Funeral Home in Kaleva, and he will be laid to rest beside his maternal grandparents at the Cornell Cemetery in Buckley.

Thelma Machiela, 88

Thelma Eileen (VanZoeren) Machiela, 88, of Holland, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026

Thelma was born in Zeeland on June 12, 1937, to Richard and Margaret VanZoeren. Thelma was employed in various data processing jobs and volunteered in many community organizations. She was an active member of Christ Memorial Church and especially enjoyed singing in the choir and being a part of the quilting group.

Thelma is survived by her husband, Norm Machiela; her sons, Craig and Charity Machiela, Troy and Dawn Machiela, and Lance and Jennifer Machiela; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; siblings, Keith (Ann) VanZoeren, Judy Hardy and Diane (Kurt) Lower; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her brother and sister-in-law, Max and Jeanne VanZoeren; and brother-in-law, Chip Hardy.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 6 in the Chapel at Christ Memorial Church, 595 Graafschap Rd., Holland. Visitation prior to the service on March 6 will begin at 10 a.m. 

Memorial contributions in Thelma’s name may be given to Benjamin's Hope.

David Kuyers, 91

David "Dave" A. Kuyers, 91, of Holland, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, after a short illness.

Born on Feb. 5, 1935, in Jenison to Albert and Gladys Kuyers, Dave spent his childhood in Zeeland and graduated from Zeeland High School. He went on to attend Hope College, where he met his future wife, Jan.

At Hope, Dave was widely admired for his athleticism, leadership, and teamwork on both the football and track teams – qualities that stayed with him throughout his life.

Following college, Dave proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserve. He and Jan married and later welcomed two children: Sue and Mark, eventually making their home in St. Joseph. 

Dave was a dedicated member of the United Methodist Church in St. Joseph and built a successful professional career. He worked for Pyramid Oil before joining St. John's Business Machines, headquartered in South Bend, Ind., where he and two colleagues became partners. The group led the company until selling the business in 1989.

Upon retiring, Dave and Jan enjoyed many wonderful years in Naples, Fla., and eventually moved back to St. Joseph. In 2021, Dave and Jan moved to Appledorn Senior Living in Holland. After Jan's passing in 2022, Dave continued to thrive in the Appledorn community, developing close friendships and fondly referring to it as "heaven on Earth."

Dave is survived by his children, Sue Ledvina and Mark (Rhonda) Kuyers; sister, Karen Wiggers; sister-in-law, Margaret Mackay; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Albert and Gladys Kuyers; his beloved wife, Jan; brother, Eugene and sister-in-law, Marjorie; brothers-in-law, Norm Wiggers and Robert Mackay; and son-in-law, Steven Ledvina.

A memorial service will be Friday, Feb. 27, with a visitation at 1 p.m. followed by a service at 2 p.m. at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland, 270 Hoover Blvd., Holland, MI 49423.

We live in a time when every headline, and every newsfeed seems to force us to choose a side: Republican or Democrat, conservative or liberal.

By Robert Kiser  

We live in a time when every headline, and every newsfeed seems to force us to choose a side: Republican or Democrat, conservative or liberal.

I am reminded of something I read in Joshua 5:13-15.

“Now it came about when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing opposite him with his sword drawn in his hand, and Joshua went to him and said to him, ‘Are you for us or for our adversaries?’ And he said, ‘No, rather I indeed come now as captain of the host of the Lord.’ And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and bowed down, and said to him, ‘What has my lord to say to his servant?’ And the captain of the Lord’s host said to Joshua, ‘Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.’ And Joshua did so.”

When Joshua met the heavenly Commander of the Lord’s army, he asked, “Are you for us or for our adversaries?” The answer surprised him: NO? What do you mean, no? Neither for Israel nor for their enemies - but wholly for the Lord of hosts.

Today I want to challenge us: it’s not about red states or blue states, not about left or right. Are we for the Lord?

This Commander serves only the Lord. His allegiance is to God’s covenant, not to human agendas. Our politics can never overshadow our worship. When we cast ballots or lobby public officials, we do so under the banner of Christ, not under a party label that demands ultimate loyalty.

Examine your heart. Whose agenda commands your passion? Party slogans or the Great Commission? Our priorities should line up with scripture.

Matthew 6:33: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.”

Jesus did not say, “Seek first a political victory.” He said, seek first the Kingdom of God.

Often in politics it seems we are choosing the lesser of evils. We seek the Lord and pick the candidate or policies that best align with scripture. After that, our job is to pray for our leaders.

1 Timothy 2:1-2: “First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.”

We might be American citizens, but first and foremost our citizenship is in heaven.

Philippians 3:20: “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

We pay taxes, obey speed limits, and respect officeholders because God ordains the civil order.

Romans 13:1-7:

“Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore he who resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.

“For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath upon the one who practices evil.

“Wherefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing.

“Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.”

If the government says to do something against scripture, then it is our duty to disobey.

Acts 5:29: “But Peter and the apostles answered and said, ‘We must obey God rather than men.’”

We defend the rights of the marginalized, speak for the unborn, and champion religious liberty.

Proverbs 31:8-9: “Open your mouth for the dumb, for the rights of all the unfortunate. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the afflicted and needy.”

We will seek to do right, not for party gain, but to display the love of Christ.

Galatians 6:10: “So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.”

Will we vote? Absolutely. When it comes to policies where does our ultimate loyalty lie?

I would like to end this with a little political humor. It is a poem I wrote about political parties.

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Political Parties Explained

The Left is not Right!!

The Right is not always Right.

We have the Right to watch the Left

and the Right!

Or pretty soon

We will have no more Rights Left!

Right?

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Robert Kiser’s desire is to explain and defend basic Christian beliefs in plain language. You can find his writing at ReasonableAnswers.com.

As a wildlife biologist I often worked in remote mountain ranges. Some were used by sheep, who always had a shepherd. The shepherd lived with the sheep, traveled with the sheep, and guarded the sheep. It was his lifework. 

By Fred Van Dyke

Read: John 10:11-18
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (v. 11)

As a wildlife biologist I often worked in remote mountain ranges. Some were used by sheep, who always had a shepherd. The shepherd lived with the sheep, traveled with the sheep, and guarded the sheep. It was his lifework. 

Are there people in your life who care for you like this, whose vocation is your well-being? If so, you are fortunate. Many people have no one like this in their lives.

Jesus told his followers that he was their shepherd - more than a hired hand in the feedlot, more than an “overseer” who checks in occasionally to ensure a profit. Even more, Jesus was their good shepherd, living closely with them. “I know my own and my own know me” (v. 14). 

He led them to their pastures, streams, and resting places. While they slept, he was wakeful. If danger came - the wolf, the lion, the bear - he would intervene with force, and at the risk of his own life.

Jesus has an intimate relationship with his sheep - with us, those who follow him. His communication with his flock is personal. He didn’t come to just give us some information that would bring us to heaven. He, the shepherd, must be with us to guide us on our journey. 

Jesus is not physically present with us today, but he’s present with us through the Holy Spirit and through his church, the testimony and care of other believers, for us to know him and to be with him.

As you pray, ask Jesus to be your shepherd. Request his intimacy and personal guidance. His vocation is your salvation.

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Fred Van Dyke is a conservation biologist dedicated to the care for God’s creation. He is also the author of two books on faith and environmental stewardship.