Columns

Allen Dale Disselkoen, 84, of Zeeland, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, at his home. 

Allen Disselkoen, 84

Allen Dale Disselkoen, 84, of Zeeland, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, at his home. 

Al was born Dec. 1, 1941, in Douglas County, S.D. to Simon and Rena (Feenstra) Disselkoen. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Sylvan (Donna) Disselkoen and Simon Disselkoen Jr.; and sister, Joyce Dykstra.

Al attended Holland Christian High School and several years later started off on his lifelong career working as a carpenter/ builder. He married Sally Timmer on Nov. 16, 1963. Soon after, he started building the first of three homes for his family in Zeeland. Al later expanded his career working as an independent builder in the Zeeland/Holland area.

The Disselkoen family are longtime members of First Baptist Church of Zeeland. Over the years Al combined his faith in Jesus with his building skills on many mission trips around the USA and the world. Al and Sally, often accompanied by their children, traveled to Africa, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Georgia, Arizona, and New Mexico, in addition to various other locations. The trips spanned a couple weeks to six months supporting the missions of Kenya Hope, Wycliffe Bible Translators and their church.

Al is survived by his wife, Sally (Timmer); children, Al (Susie) Disselkoen, Jolene (Tom) Boeve, Melissa (Chip) Dykema, and Mark (Nicole) Disselkoen; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brothers, Mel (Carol) Disselkoen and Warren (Linda) Disselkoen; brothers-in-law, Jay Dykstra and Duane (Mary) Timmer; and sister-in-law, Maxine Timmer.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Oct. 31 at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Zeeland, 246 W. Main Ave., Zeeland. Interment will be in Zeeland Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, Oct. 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kenya Hope, 2874 Port Sheldon St., Suite D, Hudsonville, MI 49426 or online at Kenyahope.org.

Robert VandenBerg, 82

Robert Peter VandenBerg, 82, passed away on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, surrounded by family who dearly loved him. He was a man of faith – a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend to so many.

Bob was born Aug. 21, 1944, to Christian and Lena VandenBerg and welcomed by older brother Allan. Later Allan and Bob welcomed sisters, Ruth and Marge.  

Bob attended Moline Christian School and South Christian High School graduating in 1962. After high school, he began working at Gallmeyer & Livingston as a machinist. Bob was drafted for service in 1965 and served in Vietnam from May 1966 to May 1967. 

After returning from Vietnam, he married Marie Johnson, who he had met on a blind date shortly before leaving for the service. Bob and Marie were married in Ackley, Iowa on June 14, 1968, and then made their home in Byron Center. A couple of years later, they welcomed their first child, Karen, then Sheri, then David. 

In the early 80’s, Bob began a hobby of roasting pigs which eventually turned into a business, one that he enjoyed for 42 years. David was proud to join Bob in the journey and will carry on the family business, bringing pork to many special occasions. 

Bob and Marie attended Forest Grove Christian Reformed Church where he served as an elder, deacon, and in other capacities. 

Bob was also involved and very proud to participate in countless parades, driving one of his tractors or joining other veterans. Bob was extremely proud that he could still wear his uniform and wore it to honor President Gerald Ford in 2006 when the Grand Rapids native was laid to rest. 

Bob is survived by his wife of 58 years, Marie; children, Karen Lepine, Sheri (Jim) Monroe and David VandenBerg; grandsons, Sean and Evan Monroe, and Wesley and Hudson VandenBerg; siblings, Allan VandenBerg, Ruth (Jay) Clevenger and Marge Palmerlee; brothers-in-law and their families, Jim and Sandi Johnson (Travis, Nicole), and Ronnie and Marcella Wingo; and other very special family members, Deloy and Sandy Johnson, Angie and Jonny VanderMate (Zeke, Charlie), Amanda and Dan Johnson, and Allie Johnson. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Christian and Lena; and sister-in-law, Hermena VandenBerg. 

Bob’s family is profoundly grateful for the exceptional and compassionate care he received throughout his journey. Special thanks are extended to the dedicated teams at Corewell Health, the VA Hospitals, and Fresenius Kidney Care in Zeeland. The family also wishes to thank Faith Hospice for the peaceful comfort and dignity they provided to Bob in his final days at home. Memorial contributions may be made to any of these organizations in his name. 

A service to celebrate Bob’s life was held on Wednesday, Oct. 28 at Forest Grove Christian Reformed Church, 3515 Perry St., Hudsonville, with Rev. Jeffery Scripps officiating. Burial was in Forest Grove Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions in Bob’s honor may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or the American Diabetes Association.

Linda Hoffman, 68

Linda Jean Hoffman, 68, of Cutlerville, passed away unexpectedly in her home on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. 

Linda was born in Zeeland to the late Jerold and Carol Nykamp. She is survived by two daughters, six grandchildren, and three sisters. As Linda requested, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or services.

Arrangements are by Strooo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St. SE, Grand Rapids.

Daniel Buchan, 41

Daniel Buchan, 41, peacefully passed away at home in Zeeland on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026. 

Born on Sept. 5, 1985, in the beautiful town of Traverse City, Dan was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend whose gentle spirit touched the lives of all who knew him.

Dan was the treasured son of Linda Huizen of Zeeland and Patrick and Susan Buchan of Traverse City. He is deeply mourned by his brother, Sam Buchan and Sara; sister and brother-in-law, Jennifer and Pete St. John; and step-siblings Ryan and Rachel. He is also survived by his grandmother, Shirley Wehr; uncle Gary and aunt Bonnie Huizen; uncles, Michael Tremain and Tim Buchan; a special aunt, Dixie Tremont; countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and the many friends he made along his journey.

Preceded in death by his grandfather, Gerald Huizen, Dan's passing leaves a void that only cherished memories can fill. He was a graduate of Holland High School, class of 2004, and embarked on a career that included working for oil drilling companies in Colorado and West Virginia, where his work took him to numerous states. Upon returning to Michigan, Dan found fulfillment working at Huizen's Locksmith Service in Hudsonville.

In honor of Dan's memory, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Hospice of Holland, an organization that provided comfort and support in his final days. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Cancer & Hematology Center in Holland and the Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion of Grand Rapids. They are especially thankful to Dr. Kelly Lynch and the entire team of doctors who accompanied Dan on his journey with great understanding and grace.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, Nov. 15 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Homewood by Hilton in Holland, 625 South Point Hotel Dr., where friends and family can share special memories and moments. 
If unable to attend because of scheduling, notes with your personal memory of Dan would be read and cherished.

Terri Muskovin, 70

Terri Lynn Muskovin, 70, of Holland, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026.

Terri was born in Holland on March 22, 1956, one of three children born to Donna and Preston Vander Slik. During her childhood, her father owned and operated a service station, and Terri often helped there — taking special joy in pumping gas and lending a hand wherever it was needed, a quiet reflection of the generous spirit that would mark her life.

Terri attended West Ottawa High School and graduated in 1974. After graduation, she began working and held several roles in the community, with her fondest being her time as a food service worker for Van Raalte Elementary School. 

In 1980, Terri met Eric Muskovin, and on Oct. 29, 1981, the two were married. Together they raised their two children, Matthew Muskovin and Erica Boersma, who attended the same elementary school where Terri worked. 

A devoted Christian throughout her life, Terri’s faith was central to who she was. When she was nine years old, her father helped found Calvary Baptist Church, and from those early years forward, her faithful commitment remained a steady guide and comfort as she remained a member of the congregation until her passing.

At church, she became affectionately known as “the sucker lady,” faithfully bringing Dum-Dum suckers to share after services — often drawing a long line of children who knew they would be met with kindness and a sweet treat.

In 1998, Terri made the decision to retire from Van Raalte Elementary School due to failing health. She was later diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, which she faced with enduring faith and steadfast devotion to her family.

Terri is survived by her husband, Eric Muskovin; children, Matthew Muskovin and Erica (Scott) Boersma; grandchildren, Noah Boersma and Charlotte Boersma; siblings, Gail (Alan) Overway and Ronald (Jacki) Vander Slik; many nieces and a nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents, Preston and Donna Vander Slik; and niece, Amy Vander Slik.

Honoring Terri's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Instead, the family invites friends and family to pay their respects on Sunday, Nov. 1 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 517 32nd St., Holland.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the care team at Resthaven. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Resthaven Care Centers in memory of Terri.

Martha Girton, 91

Martha Ann (Lambert) Girton, 91, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 at MediLodge of Zeeland after a brief illness.

Ann was born Dec. 9, 1934 in Muncie, Ind., the daughter of Marvin and Betty Lambert. She graduated from Muncie Central High School.

Ann was married to Wayne Girton on Aug. 18, 1962. She did clerical work at Maxon Corporation, Consumer Lumber and Beatrice Foods before taking time to help watch her grandchildren and nieces in her home. 

Ann is survived by her children, Cathy (Jeff) Delk, Mike (Barb) Pearson, Tricia (Joe) Cardaci, Steve (Teresa) Girton, and Bob Girton; 13 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren; and sisters, Sue and Kathryn. Her husband, Ferol Wayne Girton, and son, Charles A. Pearson, preceded her in death, in addition to her brothers, David and Jim, and sister, Jane.

No public visitation or calling hours were scheduled. Arrangements were by Meeks Mortuary & Crematory in Muncie, Ind.

Karen Quandt, 76

Karen (Klimek) Quandt, 76, formerly of Zeeland, passed away on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026 in Illinois.

Karen was born on March 28, 1950, the daughter of Frank and Stepanie (Gurek) Klimek in Chicago. She graduated from Dominican University in River Forest, Ill. in 1983 with a degree in finance. Karen worked as an IT consultant until her retirement. She was united in marriage to Tom Quandt in Hawaii.

Karen enjoyed traveling, many crafts, cooking, gardening and spending time with family. She has a gifting endowment set up at Dominican University.

Karen is survived by her husband, Tom; two brothers: Mark and Charles Klimek; five stepchildren; seven grandchildren; many nieces, nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Francis.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026 at 2 p.m. at the Colby Memorial Cemetery in Colby, Wis.

Election inspectors, generally referred to as “poll workers,” are the front-line protectors of American democracy. The ranks of these part-time public servants are not filled with career civil servants nor politicians. They are your neighbors and come from all walks of life.

By Samuel Damren

Election inspectors, generally referred to as “poll workers,” are the front-line protectors of American democracy. The ranks of these part-time public servants are not filled with career civil servants nor politicians. They are your neighbors and come from all walks of life.

In Michigan general elections, more than 35,000 individuals serve as election inspectors to assist election officials administer voting in thousands of separate elections and on ballot issues. Across the United States, the number of poll workers for the 2024 election topped 770,000.

In Michigan, as they are across the country, elections are run locally subject to state controls through strict procedures incorporating multiple “checks and balances,” bipartisan teams, and “back-up” protocols.

This commentary examines safeguards in place at the front-line level to prevent the occurrence of voter fraud.  

To be an election inspector in Michigan requires training which is obligatory, detailed, and time consuming. The pay is modest with rates ranging from $175 to $300 per day. Many inspectors volunteer their time without pay. Their work is overseen and directed by election officials and the Michigan Department of State consistent with a detailed statutory framework.

Election inspectors must follow the “Election Inspector’s Manual” (EIM). A multi-page manual for election officials serves as template for the EIM and is posted on the Michigan Department of State website. It is supplemented by information from local officials keyed to their election jurisdiction.

EIMs are user friendly but extremely detailed, including screenshots and pictures of the set up and operation of Electronic Poll Books (EPB), Voter Assist Terminal (VAT), tabulators and record keeping. 
It is structured as a “logic tree” taking election inspectors from the beginning of voting process on election day to conclusion. It provides step-by-step methods to address specific issues.

Diana Pratt is my neighbor. She is a retired professor of Legal Writing at Wayne State University Law School, a position she held for 26 years. The upcoming November election will be the fourth time she has served as an election inspector in Washtenaw County.

Based on her training and personal experience, Professor Pratt observed, and wants me to share with you, that “our election system is impressive. Multiple checks ensure that the system is safe and secure from outside interference. The EPB and election inspectors also ensure that only those registered to vote are allowed to vote.”

“When the polls are closed, the tabulated election results, back-up paper ballots, and all the additional information prepared during the day are transported to voting headquarters by a Democratic and Republican member of the precinct team,” Pratt indicated. “Every voter should be confident that their votes will be counted.”

If it occurs, admissible evidence establishing that a vote was unlawful is straight forward: Proof that named voter X registered to vote, that under law named voter X was not entitled to vote, and that voter X voted in an election. Criminal fraud charges require proof of intent which can be problematic.

Conjecture, speculation, inadmissible hearsay, and unsupported accusations of illegal voting do not establish anything. Likewise, “irregularities” in election processing do not establish fraudulent conduct unless causally connected to the knowing acceptance of a fraudulent vote.

In all instances, identifying the name of the person who registered to vote illegally or the name used to cast a fraudulent vote is fundamental. If you can’t identify those names, you have nothing upon which to base an allegation of illegal voting, much less to then begin to assemble the admissible and necessary evidence to prove it.  

In past instances of alleged voter fraud, purported lists of “dead” voters have been presented to various authorities only to find upon investigation that the voters were either not dead or, if deceased, did not actually vote. Similar unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud in lawsuits have resulted in sanctions against counsel.

While rare, voter fraud does occur in Michigan. Charges and convictions for voter fraud since 2020 number in the handful across the state. The most recent charges were brought by Attorney General Dana Nessel in August of 2026 against five non-citizens that voted in the 2024 election.

Beginning with 35,000 front-line poll workers through the entire registration and voting process, Michigan elections have repeatedly proven to be free from outside interference and competently conducted in non-partisan tradition.

—————

Samuel Damren is an attorney and author who lives in Ann Arbor. His legal career spanned five decades, starting as an assistant prosecutor in Wayne County in 1975.

During Jesus Christ’s ministry on earth, He surrounded Himself with people that He would train to continue the work that He began. 

By Brandi Hafler

During Jesus Christ’s ministry on earth, He surrounded Himself with people that He would train to continue the work that He began. 

He invited 12 men to join Him as He walked from village to village, healing people, casting out demons, and proclaiming the arrival of the Kingdom of God. Those men came from different backgrounds and different social classes, with different family situations and careers. Each had his own set of insecurities, fears, and hang-ups. Jesus spent His days teaching them how to love God and love others. 
Two of the men failed. 

Judas was led by greed and chose betrayal. He received 30 pieces of silver to lead the Jewish chief priests to Jesus. 

“Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: ‘The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.’ Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, ‘Rabbi!’ and kissed him. The men seized Jesus and arrested him.” (Mark 14:44-46 NIV)

Peter, led by fear, chose denial.

“After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, ‘Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.’ He began to call down curses, and he swore to them, ‘I don’t know this man you’re talking about.’ Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: ‘Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times.’ And he broke down and wept.” (Mark 14:69-72)

This is where both men learned a hard lesson: we cannot undo our worst decisions. No matter how much we regret our actions, not every mistake can be fixed. 

Have you been there, in that moment of deep regret? Have you ever wished that you could step back in time and do something different? 

This place is not a cement barrier with a “Road Ends” sign. This is not where your journey comes to an abrupt stop. It is a crossroads. It is an opportunity to go a different way. Judas and Peter were at a crossroads. Here is what they did.

One chose the road to self-destruction. 

“When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders.  ‘I have sinned,’ he said, ‘for I have betrayed innocent blood.’”

“’What is that to us?’ they replied. ‘That’s your responsibility.’” (Matthew 27:3-4)

When he realized that he could not change the past, he chose not to deal with his future.

“So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.”  (Matthew 27:5)

The other chose the road to life. After Jesus was resurrected, He found some of the disciples fishing. 

“Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, ‘It is the Lord!’ As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, ‘It is the Lord,’ he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water.” (John 21:7)

He ran to his Savior, who gave him forgiveness from the past and a purpose for his future.

“… Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?’

‘Yes, Lord,’ he said, ‘you know that I love you.’

Jesus said, ‘Feed my lambs.’ 

Again Jesus said, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’

He answered, ‘Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.’

Jesus said, ‘Take care of my sheep.’

The third time he said to him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ He said, ‘Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.’

Jesus said, ‘Feed my sheep.’”  (John 21:15-17)

Two men failed. One turned back to Jesus. His life became a testament to how Jesus’ grace is greater than our worst sin. And he became the rock on which Jesus built His church. (Matthew 16:18)
How about you? Are you carrying the guilt and shame of decisions that you wish you could undo? Have you been avoiding God because you feel like He could never forgive you? 

Your story is not over. Your road has not come to an end. You are standing at a crossroads. Jesus, who overcame death, invites you to join Him on the road back to life. He is offering forgiveness, asking, “Do you love me?”

Which road will you choose?

—————

Brandi Hafler is a Wesleyan pastor in West Michigan who works to connect people through serving, care and hospitality.

A Kenyan proverb says, “However long the night is, the dawn will break.” Paul’s life embodied this truth. From shipwrecks to prisons, betrayal to loneliness, he endured every hardship with unwavering faith. Near the end of his journey, he could look back without regret and say, “I have finished the race.”

By Rev. Shadrack Ogwal

Read: 2 Timothy 4:6-8
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (v. 7)

A Kenyan proverb says, “However long the night is, the dawn will break.” Paul’s life embodied this truth. From shipwrecks to prisons, betrayal to loneliness, he endured every hardship with unwavering faith. Near the end of his journey, he could look back without regret and say, “I have finished the race.”

Finishing well is not about how fast we start, but how faithfully we endure. The Christian life is a marathon that demands steady obedience. Each step of faith, each act of service, and each moment of trust adds up to a life that honors God. 

Paul’s confidence did not come from comfort but from conviction. He knew that the crown of righteousness awaited him, not because he was perfect, but because he remained faithful. The same hope sustains every believer who refuses to quit despite trials, fatigue, or disappointment.

In Philippians 2, Paul says of his journey, “Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all” (v. 17). All his suffering did not leave him bitter or resentful.

When your path feels dark or the finish line distant, remember that dawn always follows the night. God’s grace gives strength for every mile and joy for every struggle. May God give you endurance to finish your race with joy, faith to remain steadfast, and hope that shines until the crown of righteousness is yours.

As you pray, ask God to renew your strength for the journey ahead.

—————

Rev. Shadrack Ogwal is a vicar in rural northern Uganda. This devotional was first published in Words of Hope Uganda’s devotional book. 

My favorite time of the year starts right now! It begins on Halloween and goes for about six weeks. 

By Gary Miller

My favorite time of the year starts right now! It begins on Halloween and goes for about six weeks. 

In deer hunting terms, these few weeks involve the pre-rut, rut, post-rut, and secondary rut. Each of these periods offers some exciting times to be in the woods. And if one is limited in the amount of days he or she can hunt, concentrating on this window of opportunity will provide the best chances to bring home a trophy. 

In years past I couldn’t wait for opening day. I was not only looking for meat to put in the freezer, I also thought that one big buck might just show up anytime. Therefore my “window of opportunity” started the end of September and ran through January. 

This was not only a long period of time but it was also very draining on me physically and on every other area of my life. I was obsessed and every day I couldn’t go hunting, I knew would be the day Mr. Bruiser Buck would walk by. I’m glad I got older and wiser, and slightly more mature. 

Today, I still love to hunt but I understand that not only do I have more important life responsibilities; I can save my time and energy for a much smaller period of time and still have fun and be successful. It’s the quality over quantity thing. It’s also just being a better manager of life.

The benefit I have that some do not is that hunting and fishing are important for what I do as a writer and speaker. I know that sounds very convenient, and my wife is not very impressed by that excuse either, but nevertheless these experiences give me fuel to write and help me identify with those that I speak to. It allows me not so much to tell my story but understand theirs – and yours. 

This is also the story of Christianity and Jesus in particular. It is the story of commonality. It is the story of shared experience. It is the story of one window of opportunity that Jesus took – willingly, that gave Him understanding of our story. 

You see, we live in world that is full of suffering and the most difficult question to answer for those who undergo such tremendous suffering is “why.” Why God, do you allow such pain? Why God, is there so much evil? Why God, are there so many people who are without? God has not chosen to give us very satisfying answers at times, but what He did choose to do was identify with our suffering. 
And in one small window of time, Jesus (God in the flesh) died; not only so He could tell us of His story of salvation for all, but so that He could understand our story of pain as well. 

Whatever we may say about Jesus, there is one thing we cannot say: we cannot say He knows nothing of our suffering. And for that He stands alone among all other religions.

             —————

Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 24 years. He has also written five books which include compilations of his articles and a father/son devotional. He also speaks at wild game dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. Write to him at gary@outdoortruths.org.

Shirley Van Klompenberg, 92, of Zeeland, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026.

Shirley Van Klompenberg, 92

Shirley Van Klompenberg, 92, of Zeeland, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026.

Out of school Shirley worked at Big Dutchman and then at Royal Casket. Later in life she baked for her son and son-in-law at Van Raalte’s and Community Restaurants for many years. She was a longtime member of North Street Christian Reformed Church. She enjoyed volunteering at The Bridge Youth Center, where she cooked many meals and too many batches of soup to count.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Laverne, in 2023; parents, Stanley and Albertha Klein; son-in-law, Jim Wabeke; parents-in-law, Bert and Winnie Van Klompenberg; siblings, Jerome Klein, Stanley Klein Jr., Henry Klein, Rachel Klein Schrotenboer and her husband Lloyd; and brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Michael De Pree, Verna Elzinga and Robert Achterhof.

Shirley is survived by her children and grandchildren, Lyle and Barbara Van Klompenberg (Korde Van Klompenberg, Keith and Sarah Van Klompenberg, and Kris and Taylor Van Klompenberg), Susan Wabeke (Nicholas and Sherri Wabeke, Todd Wabeke, Kyle and Joanna Wabeke), Cindy Poest (Kevin Poest, Henry Poest, Gary and Nicole Poest), Sally and Jeffery Koert (Jason and Tina Koert, Justin and Mindy Koert, Casie and Benjamin Woiwode, Isaac and Kayla Koert, and Bounleth and Sury Norinh); 37 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Earl and Margie Klein, and Sandra De Pree; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Allen Elzinga and Bonnie Achterhof.

Funeral services to honor Shirley’s life will be held Friday, Oct. 23 at 1:30 p.m. at North Street Christian Reformed Church, 20 E. Main Ave., Zeeland. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery. Visitation will be today from 4 to 7 p.m. at North Street CRC.
Memorial contributions may be given to The Bridge Youth Center or Corewell Health Hospice.

Renee Munsey, 55

Renee Munsey, 55, of Zeeland, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026.

Renee had a heart of gold; she loved every person she met. Her love for her five children and their friends was unimaginable. She truly touched every person she met in a positive way. 

Renee was preceded in death by her mother, Darlene Cook. She is survived by her children, James Munsey (Kendall Crebassa), Caleb Munsey, Nicole Munsey, Luke Munsey (Alyssa Maze) and Kylea Munsey (Odean Bennett); father, Dale Cook; and brother, John Smith.

A funeral service to honor Renee’s life will be held Friday, Oct. 23 at 11 a.m. at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Visitation will be today from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

Marlene Ensing, 94

Marlene Joyce Ensing, 94, of Zeeland, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026.

Marlene was born in Zeeland on Sept. 8, 1932 to Henry and Gertrude Lokers. She graduated from Zeeland High School in 1950. She enrolled in the nursing program at Butterworth School of Nursing and graduated in 1953 as a registered nurse.

Marlene married Elmer Ensing in 1954 and they lived in Texas for one year. She worked at the VA Hospital while her husband finished his four years in the Air Force. Upon returning to Zeeland, she continued her career in nursing at Zeeland Community Hospital for 40 years. 

Marlene is survived by her husband of 72 years, Elmer Ensing; children, Daniel and Karen Ensing, Patricia Jongekrijg, William and Denise Ensing, and Jack and Jodi Ensing; grandchildren, Lisa Jongekrijg, Lynae and Bruce Graveling, Lance and Amber Jongekrijg, Andrea Ensing, Nicole Ensing, Kendra Ensing, Travis and Kendal Ensing, Nathan Ensing, Brooke and Tom Rosendahl, Taylor and Melanie Ensing, Tanner Ensing, Blaire and Kyle Van Tuinen; nine great-grandchildren (and one on the way); sister, Judy and Joe Zainea; in-laws, Roger and Sue Ensing, Dale and Libby Ensing, and June and Fred Celik; as well as nieces and nephews.

Marlene was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Les Jongekrijg; brother and sister-in-law, Vern and Nadine Lokers; and in-laws, Bob Ensing and Lloyd Ensing.

Funeral services we held Monday, Oct. 19 at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. 

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude's Hospital or Hospice of Holland.

Kenneth Dykstra, 72

Kenneth Dale Dykstra, 72, of Jenison, died on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026.

Ken was born April 11, 1954, in Grand Rapids, to John and Marilyn (Kroondyke) Dykstra. He graduated from Covenant Christian High School and the Kent County Tech Center. 

As a young man he was raised at Hope Protestant Reformed Church. In the last eight years he has been a member of Georgetown Protestant Reformed Church. Ken worked for 30 years at Royal Plastics prior his retirement. Ken also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and even skydiving.

Ken is survived by his brother, Gerald Dykstra; sister, Wanda Kamminga; nieces and nephews, Mike and Victoria Dykstra, Eric Dykstra, Heather Dykstra, Carl Dykstra, Eileen Kellstrom, Gloria Hoving, Shawn and Lynnae Kamminga, Shannon and Scott Den Herder, Kendra and Mitch Stuive, Ryan Kamminga, Audra and Joe Ophoff, Shane and Whitney Kamminga; and many extended family members.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, Oct. 20 at Georgetown Protestant Reformed Church, 7146 48th Ave., Hudsonville. Interment was in Rosedale Memorial Park. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Georgetown Protestant Reformed Church-Grace Foster Home Fund, 7146 48th Ave., Hudsonville MI 49426.

Annette Marsh-Carper, 78

Annette June Marsh-Carper, 78, of Fennville, was welcomed into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026. 

Annette was born on April 2, 1948, in Lansing to Lawrence and Arlene Hansen. She graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in 1966. 

That same year, she met Mike Marsh, and the two married in 1967. Together, they made their home in Saugatuck, where they raised their sons, Andrew and Aaron. Annette devoted herself to motherhood, creating a loving home and a wonderful life for her family. 

After 30 years together, Mike passed from cancer, bringing a heartbreaking close to a cherished chapter of Annette’s life. 

Annette later married Phil Carper. Together they built a home where they would spend the rest of their lives, opening its doors to family and friends throughout the years. 

An extraordinary homemaker, Annette had a remarkable gift for bringing her creative visions to life. She was an accomplished seamstress, knitter, and quilter – one of her quilts won first prize at the Michigan State Fair. 

Annette was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Arlene Hansen; brother, Elliot Hansen; and husbands, L. Michael Marsh (Mike) and Phil Carper. 

She is survived by her sons, Andrew (Michelle) Marsh and Aaron (Beth) Marsh; grandchildren, 

Zach (Alyssa) Marsh, Ashley Marsh (Trey Bickel), Michael Marsh (Lauren Freemon), and Rachel Marsh; and great-grandson, Weston Marsh. 

Annette also leaves behind her stepdaughter, Amanda (Nick) Quinn; step-grandson, Kaiden Bierhalter; and step-granddaughters, Mallory and Madison Quinn; and many beloved in-laws, nieces, and nephews. 

A private service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Gloria Geerlings, 65

Gloria Sue Geerlings, 65, known lovingly to so many as Glo, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026. 

A longtime resident of Zeeland, she filled every room she entered with her infectious laugh and her unmistakable joy for life.

Gloria was born on Nov. 30, 1960, in Muskegon to Francis and Evelyn Moon. She graduated from Manton High School in 1979. On Aug. 17, 1985, she married the love of her life, Donald Geerlings, beginning a wonderful life that would span more than four decades, filled with the family that meant everything to her.

Gloria is survived by her husband, Donald; son, Bradley Geerlings; daughter, Kasandra Gelder, and son-in-law, Michael; grandchildren, Aaiden Gillespie, Amelia Perez, Roman Perez and Jackson Gelder; siblings, Kay Roys, Martin Moon, Sandra Moon, David Moon, and Judith Moon; and many beloved in-laws. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Evelyn Moon.

A service celebrating her life will be held at the Indian Lake Association pavilion on Saturday, Oct. 24 at 1 p.m. at 8400 Cheyenne Dr., Howard City.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Helen Devos Children's Hospital at corewellhealth.org/foundation or Saint Jude's Children's Hospital at stjude.org/donate.

Arrangements are by the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.