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Arloa Jane Tjapkes, 87, passed away on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. 

Arloa Tjapkes, 87

Arloa Jane Tjapkes, 87, passed away on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. 

Born on Jan. 29, 1938 in Zeeland, she was the beloved daughter of Albert and Aneline Westfield. Arloa graduated from high school in 1956.

She married the love of her life, Ronald Tjapkes, on May 16, 1958, and together they had two beautiful children. Arloa was a devoted wife and mother, residing in Holland.

Arloa was known for her love of caring for others and her supportive nature. She was a people person and a comedian who loved to joke with friends and family. Arloa enjoyed traveling with Ronald, and her children fondly remember their trips to Europe and Italy. She even kept black sand from their trip to Hawaii as a cherished memory.

Arloa is survived by her children, Brian (Stephanie) Westfield and Laurel (Brent) Webster; grandchildren, Isaac Schreur, Adan Tjapkes, Ethan (LeAnn) Tjapkes and Calla (Nate) Conroy; great-grandchild, Jude Conroy; brother-in-law, Jerry Vanderstelt; two nephews and many cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Tjapkes; brother, Darryl Westfield; and sister, Elaine Dawn Vanderstelt.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland.

William Bolman, 89

William (Bill) Bolman, 89, of Jenison, formerly of Zeeland, died peacefully at his home on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, surrounded by his wife and family.

Bill was born on March 29, 1936 to William and Janet Bolman. He was raised on the family farm in Fillmore Township along with his older sisters, Caroline and Joan, and younger brother, Eugene. He graduated from Holland High School in 1954 where he participated in cross country, track, and band.

In 1955, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army. He completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. He then served for two years at Rhein-Main Air Base in Germany and at an Air Force base in England as a special contingency of Army with Air Force (SCAWAF). 

After returning from service, Bill met and married Marilyn Koster in 1959. They settled in Zeeland, where they raised three children, Patti, Janna, and Doug. He was employed by Zeeland Chemical for 39 years. 

Bill was a lifelong member of First Reformed Church in Zeeland, where he served on consistory as both elder and deacon. His Christian convictions and commitment often shone through in his many volunteer activities and in the church community.

Bill was blessed with five wonderful grandchildren, Alex and Glen Mc Cormick, Ashley, Kristina, and Austin Bolman. Most recently he experienced the greatest joy in his life by welcoming great-granddaughter, Ruth Jacqueline Yonker. Later in life, Bill was again blessed to meet and marry Kay Vande Bunte in 2010. 

The family is grateful to Kay for her loving caring of Bill. Also thank you to the staff and residents of Sunset Village, where Bill and Kay lived for the past six months. Special thanks to Corewell Health Hospice care team - Angie, Brian, and Holly.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Marilyn; and sisters, Caroline Voss and Joan Bolman. 

Bill is survived by his wife, Kay; brother, Eugene (Lois) Bolman; children, Patti Mc Cormick (Richard Totino), Janna (Evan) Dawdy and Douglas (Tracy) Bolman; grandchildren, Alex Mc Cormick (Elizabeth Gonzalez), Glen Mc Cormick, Ashley (Reece) Yonker, Kristina Bolman, 
Austin Bolman (Chloe Klamt); and great-granddaughter, Ruth Jacqueline Yonker.

Funeral services were held Monday, Jan. 26 at First Reformed Church of Zeeland, 125 E. Lincoln Ave. Burial was in West Drenthe Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be given to Harvest Stand Ministries.

Garnet Runstrom, 96

Garnet Margaret Runstrom, 96, of Zeeland, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026.

Garnet was born on Jan. 5, 1930, in Conklin to Cornelis and Barbara (Schaefer) Wiltenburg. She was a graduate of Sparta High School. Garnet later married the love of her life, Raymond Runstrom. Together, they built their life in the Grand Rapids area while also wintering in sunny Florida, which allowed them to enjoy golfing together year-round. Garnet had a long career at AT&T (formerly Michigan Bell).

A devoted member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids for many years, she recently found a welcoming community at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Holland, where her faith continued to be an integral part of her life.

Garnet is survived by her nieces and nephews: David Bouwkamp, Betty Poppema, Mary Schutte, Shawna Bouwkamp, Barbara Buescher, Vicki Schallhorn, Robert Wiltenburg, Arlo Wiltenburg Jr., Linda Napper, Kevin Wiltenburg, John Wiltenburg, Mary Kathryn Steenrod, David Runstrom, Thomas Runstrom, Virginia Campbell, James Runstrom and Eric Runstrom.

Garnet was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Runstrom, in 2005; siblings, Delores and Willis Bouwkamp, Melvin and Shirley Wittenburg, Arlo and Barbara Wittenburg; nieces, Patty Yancey, Mary Wittenburg and Linda Wilcox; and nephew, Richard Runstrom.

Services for Garnet are being planned for a later date. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Grand Rapids. Arrangements are by Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St. Zeeland.

Memorial contributions may be given to Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church at 3151 120th Ave., Holland, MI 49424.

Barrett Dykgraaf, infant

Barrett Dykgraaf, almost 6-month-old son of Justin and Alexandra Dykgraaf, passed away Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.

Barrett was a precious gift whose life, though far too short, was filled with love, courage, and light. He was born with Campomelic Dysplasia, a rare form of skeletal dysplasia, but it never limited who he was or the love he gave. Barrett spent his first 35 days in the NICU, where he fought bravely each and every day, showing a strength far beyond his size. He continued his fight at home, surrounded by endless love. Barrett warmed the hearts of all who knew him with his sweet presence, his tight grip, his beautiful voice, and a smile and laugh that brought pure joy. He taught us about resilience, love without limits, and the profound impact one tiny soul can have. 

Besides his parents, he is survived by his grandparents, Mark and Rebecca Golus, Jeff and Stephanie Dykgraaf, and Sara Eggerding-Dykgraaf; great-grandparents, Donald and Delphine Johnson, Ralph Golus, Ruth Dykgraaf, and Lee Eggerding; aunts, uncles, and cousins; godmother and aunt, Jaclyn Beach-Nelson and Zachary Nelson (Riley and Cameron), Elyse and Justin Hawley (Caledonia), Britleigh Strunk, Brandon and Karissa Dykgraaf (Griffin), Collin and Danielle Dykgraaf; and great aunt and uncle, Dona Johnson-Beach and Michael Beach.

The funeral service to honor Barrett’s life will be held Saturday, Jan. 31 at 11 a.m. at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Visitation will be Friday, Jan. 30, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the funeral home. Interment will be in Lakeshore Cemetery, Grand Haven. 
Memorial contributions may be given to Corewell Health Foundation West Michigan.

David Holstege, 74

David Holstege, 74, of Holland, died unexpectedly on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026 at his home.

He was a member of Graafschap Christian Reformed Church and retired from the Herman Miller Zeeland plant after more than 40 years of employment.

Dave was the son of John and Jeanette Holstege. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Bernard.

Dave is survived by his wife of 45 years, Elaine; children and grandchildren, Tim and Crista Holstege (Adilynn, Lacey, Kyler), and Lindsey and Dan Wede (Madison, Lucy); and sister, Ruth and Bob Gritter.

Funeral services were held Friday, Jan. 23 at Graafschap Christian Reformed Church, 5973 Church St., Holland. Burial was in Graafschap Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to Zeeland Christian Schools or Graafschap Christian Education Opportunity Fund.

Lorne Berens, 94

Lorne Berens, 94, of Burnips, passed away Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026.

Lorne was preceded in death by his parents, 11 siblings, and two nieces and three nephews. He was a member of Burnips United Methodist Church. Lorne retired from General Electric.

He is survived by his sister, Una Miller; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service honoring Lorne’s life was held Saturday, Jan. 24 at Burnips United Methodist Church, 4241 30th St., Burnips. Arrangements were by the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Nicholas Deters, 30

Nicholas J. Deters, 30, passed away unexpectedly of a cardiac event on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. Nicholas became a Gift of Life Donor, and his gifts impacted many other lives in tremendous ways. 

Nicholas was born April 27, 1995, in Holland to Brent and Jillane (Van Dam) Deters. He graduated from Zeeland East High School in 2013 and Careerline Tech Center. Nick began working at Genzink Plumbing, later at Wassink Plumbing, and he was most recently working for Dimensional Plumbing. 

Nick met Megan Swett in high school, and they married on Oct. 27, 2018. Nicholas and Megan were raising their three young children in Holland Township. He loved doing projects and giving rides to his kids on his John Deere tractor. Nicholas loved to play and rough house with Wesley and Wyatt and enjoyed snuggles and naps with Harper.

Nick was preceded in death by his father, Brent Deters, in 2021; Megan’s father, Paul Swett, in 2021, grandparents, Rich Van Dam, John Deters Jr. and Irene Deters, and Robert Swett; and uncle, Jeff Van Dam.

Nick is survived by his wife of seven years, Megan; their children, Wesley, Wyatt, and Harper; mother, Jillane (Van Dam) Deters; mother-in-law, Paula Swett; siblings, Elizabeth Deters and Matt Spangler, and Emily Deters; siblings-in-law, Andrew and Katy Swett and family, Josh and Kate Swett and family, and Danielle Swett; grandparents, Marla Van Dam, Donna Swett, and Raymond and Peggy Betts; and many extended family members.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Jan. 24 at Immanuel Church, 325 104th Ave., Holland. Interment was in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.

Instead of flowers, please consider a donation to Megan Deters - “Deters’ Children’s Education Fund’ in the check memo line, Macatawa Bank, 12415 Riley St., Holland MI 49424, or donate electronically at gofund.me/01eedab0a.

Lawrence Folkers, 79

Lawrence Neil Folkers, 79, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 10, 2026, with his family by his side. 

Neil was born on June 6, 1946, in Reedley, California, to Lawrence E. and Vivian Folkers. He proudly served aboard the USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63) in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, a service that reflected and reinforced his lifelong sense of duty, integrity, and quiet strength.

A man anchored in faith, Neil placed his trust fully in his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. His faith guided how he worked, loved, and lived. He was steadfast and sincere throughout every season of life.

Neil lived in Reedley, Calif., Grand Junction, Colo., San Diego, Calif. and Zeeland. He worked as a car salesman, master craftsman, and finally over-the-road truck driver. He was a master woodworker, a lover of the outdoors, and found joy in simple moments; camping trips, beach days, campfires, and meals shared with family.

Neil was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence E. and Vivian Folkers; and his sisters, Bonnie and Jane.

He is survived by his sister, Lela; sons, Lincoln (Leslie) Folkers and Eric (Erica) Folkers; grandchildren, Lincoln Jr. (Casey) Folkers, Darrion (Dain) Lewis, Josh (Lizzy) Folkers, Bella (Gavin) Brouwer, Caden Folkers, Gracie Folkers, and Ethan Folkers; and four great-grandchildren.

A memorial service was held Monday, Jan. 26 at The Foundry Church, 425 100th St., Zeeland. Interment was in Zeeland Cemetery (Original).

For the past couple of months, the small group that I facilitate at our church has been reading the book “Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools,” by Tyler Staton.

By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record

For the past couple of months, the small group that I facilitate at our church has been reading the book “Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools,” by Tyler Staton.

It’s probably the best book I have ever read (outside of the Bible itself) about prayer. It tackles head-on a lot of the issues that Christians and non-Christians alike have struggled with over the years.

This book thoughtfully and with great sensitivity addresses questions or statements like: If God is all-powerful, why does he need my prayer? How do I know he hears me? God is much too big for me to bother him with my little problems. Why does he seem silent when I pour out my heart to him on a situation in my life? Why didn’t he protect my loved one who died tragically?

Staton pastors a church in Portland, Ore., and is the U.S. national director of the 24-7 Prayer movement, an international movement that dates back to a student-led prayer vigil in England more than a quarter-century ago. In the opening chapter of the book, he shares the story of when he was 13 years old and with the encouragement of a mentor, he would walk around his middle school every day for the whole summer, holding a folded-up copy of his school’s directory, praying for each and every student from his eighth-grade class.

And something really amazing happened as a result of Tyler’s prayers. He ended up leading a Christian outreach meeting at his school an hour before the start of the class day. By the end of that school year, one-third of Tyler’s classmates had become believers.

Understand, Tyler didn’t know a lot of the basics of being a Christian at 13. He himself was a skeptic. He took on this experiment as a way of answering that deep question within his soul about God: “Are you for real?”

In this book, Staton asks two major questions about prayer: Why don’t we pray, and why pray?

On the first question, Tyler gives us a four-part answer, but all four parts have something in common: the word “fear.” He writes, “Prayer itself makes us anxious because it uncovers fears we can ignore as long as we don’t engage deeply, thoughtfully, vulnerably with God.”

We don’t pray for fear of being naïve: Tyler writes, “To pray is to risk trusting someone who might let you down. To pray is to get our hopes up.”

We don’t pray for fear of silence: we fear real interaction with God, apart from all the noise in our world.

We don’t pray for fear of selfish motives. Tyler cites the example of someone who is praying for their roommate who doesn’t know Jesus. Why does this person REALLY want their roommate to find God? Is it from a pure desire for their roommate to experience God’s love, or is it just trying to get them to reach the same conclusion they themselves have made?

My favorite: We don’t pray for fear of doing it wrong. We hear others at church or in our small groups who pray the most eloquent, beautiful prayers. And some of us struggle with prayer because we can’t come up with our own words to express what we feel.

Then on the question of why we should pray, Staton gives us these bullet points:

Pray because you’re overwhelmed: Our tendency is to pray safe, calculated prayers that we think will shield us from being disappointed if they’re not answered.

Pray because trust comes before faith: He writes, “Before we can have faith that God will answer a given request, we simply have to learn to trust the character of God we’re talking to.”

Pray because complaints are welcome: For the longest time, I was afraid to tell God how I really felt about something because I had it in my head that my complaints would be seen as rejecting God. Then I started reading some of the Psalms David wrote. For instance, check out Psalm 55:4-5: “My heart is in anguish within me; the terrors of death have fallen on me. Fear and trembling have beset me, horror has overwhelmed me.”

Pray because the only way to get it wrong is by trying to get it right: Tyler says just be real with God. He cites as his example, right smack dab in the Lord’s Prayer: “give us this day our daily bread.” After we pray about his majesty and his holiness, God invites us to tell him what we need for this day.

Staton goes on to say that’s okay for us to tell God when we’re angry with him, when we’re disappointed, when we don’t know what to believe. More than anything else, God wants a relationship with you and me, and real relationship can only come when we are fully free to say what is on our heart.

The Lord is near. Don’t be afraid. He loves you more than you can ever imagine.

Behind the big, defining moments of our lives stand thousands of little moments. The burning bush of Exodus 3 is a big, defining moment in Moses’s life, but that encounter was fueled by all the workaday activities that preceded it. 

By Jon Opgenorth

Read: Exodus 2:1-3
“She saw that he was a fine child.” (v. 2)

Behind the big, defining moments of our lives stand thousands of little moments. The burning bush of Exodus 3 is a big, defining moment in Moses’s life, but that encounter was fueled by all the workaday activities that preceded it. 

For 80 years God wove the tapestry of Moses’s journey in such a way that, as we gaze at the whole, we see threads of his future in moments of his past.

In the days of Moses’s birth, Pharaoh decreed, “Every son that is born to the Hebrews you shall cast into the Nile” (Exodus 1:22). But Moses’s parents, Amram and Jochebed (6:20), saw something in their baby. He was a “fine child” (2:2). And so, they hid their son. 

They risked death and faced terrible odds to place their baby in a tar-lined basket on the river Nile. Why? Because they saw something other people could not. “By faith,” Hebrews 11:23 says, “they were not afraid of the king’s edict.”

Who saw you?

As we pay attention to the story of our own lives, we begin to see God weaving moments into the tapestry of our journey. We can find people in our past who saw something in us. It may be our parents, but it could be a friend, teacher, or coach. 

Take time to gaze on your life’s journey. Who saw you? Thank God for that person and tell someone about who saw you.

As you pray, thank God for the people in your life who saw something in you.

—————

Rev. Jon Opgenorth serves as president of Words of Hope. Previously, he served for 18 years as senior pastor at Trinity Reformed Church in Orange City, Iowa. In preparation for ministry, he received a BA in Religion from Northwestern College, and an MDiv from Fuller Theological Seminary.

Sharon Louise Caldwell, 83, of LeRoy Township, passed away peacefully after a long illness on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, surrounded by family at her son’s home in Zeeland.

Sharon Caldwell, 83

Sharon Louise Caldwell, 83, of LeRoy Township, passed away peacefully after a long illness on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, surrounded by family at her son’s home in Zeeland.

Sharon was born June 26, 1942, in Cadillac to Howard F. Lehr and Agnes E. (Frost). She graduated from Cadillac High School in 1960. Sharon worked at First National Bank of Cadillac before marrying the love of her life, Dee S. Caldwell, in 1963. Dee passed away in 1971 from cancer.

Sharon later worked as fill-in secretary at the local elementary schools before taking a position in accounts receivable at Baldwin Family Health Care. In succeeding years, she became the manager of the dental department. She retired after 28 years of service.

Sharon was predeceased by her husband, her parents, her brother, Howard E. (Joyce) Lehr, and her sister, Donna (Gary) Smith.

She is survived by her children, Daniel (Maria) Caldwell and Christina (Dan) LaVergne; stepdaughters, DeeLayne (Mike) Verdon and Lori Palmer; grandchildren, Taylor, Ryan, Zach, Carrie, Ann, John, Emily, Analíz, and Lennon; great-grandson, Herbie; and nieces, nephews, and many cousins.

Per her wishes, there were no services.

Cremation has taken place, with a spring burial to be held in LeRoy Township Cemetery.

Cynthia Kimber, 68

Cynthia L. Kimber, 68, of Holland, died Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026 at Holland Hospital.

She was born in Holland, but spent many years in Royal Palm Beach, Fla., where she worked for Palm Beach County as a client service specialist. She retired in 2017 never missing a day of work, and shortly after moved back to Holland.

Cynthia is survived by her husband of 50 years, Scott; father-in-law, Don Kimber; sister-in-law, Beth Mayer; siblings, Karen Mcdyer, Debbie Diepenhorst and Mark Diepenhorst; nephews, David Mayer and Jassen Dugge; and several other nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, Jan. 28, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Holland Charter Township Community Center. Private graveside burial will be in Zeeland Cemetery in the spring.

Memorial contributions may be given to Harbor Humane Society at harborhumane.org/donate.

Donna Bolthouse, 83

Donna Sue Bolthouse, 83, of Holland, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025 after an eight-year battle with Parkinson’s disease. 

She was born in Belding on Sept. 1, 1942 to Dr. Arthur Green and Sue Cate Green. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Robert and Daniel Green, and husband of 36 years, James H. Bolthouse, who passed away of cancer in 1998.

Donna graduated from Belding High School in 1960, where she was crowned Apple Queen in her senior year. She attended Western Michigan University and earned a B.S. degree in special education in 1964. In 1982, she obtained her masters in reading from Central Michigan University and later earned an endorsement to teach pre-primary Impaired children.

Donna lived in Big Rapids from 1967 to 2002, where she was a faithful member of Fellowship Christian Reformed Church. During those years, she was actively involved in many community activities and committees, generously giving her time and talents in service to others.

Donna taught in the Mecosta-Osceola Intermediate School District for 20 years, retiring in 2002. She had a deep love for teaching and had a special place in her heart for those with special needs.

After retiring, Donna moved to Holland to be near her three children and their families, a transition that brought her great joy and allowed her to remain closely connected to those she loved most. 

Donna was blessed to marry Dennis P. Kaleugher in 2019. Together, they shared a love for traveling, dancing, and biking. They embraced new adventures, and created cherished memories filled with joy, companionship, and laughter. 

Donna is survived by her husband, Dennis P. Kaleugher; children, Scott (Gwen) Bolthouse of Holland, Julie (Jeff) Mass of Zeeland, and Amy (David) Brillhart of Jenison; siblings, William (Cheryl) Green and Lucy (Mick) McGraw; grandchildren, Connor (Bethany) Bolthouse, Alex (Emily) Bolthouse, Alison (Kory) Young, Lanae Mass, Mallory and Rachel Brillhart; and great-grandson, Elliot Bolthouse.

A memorial service for Donna will be held Saturday, Jan. 24 at 11 a.m. at Central Wesleyan Church, 446 W. 40th St., Holland, in the Chapel (use entrance G). Visitation will take place before the service, starting at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Donna’s name can be made to Compassionate Heart Ministries at compheart.org/donate or the Parkinson’s Foundation at parkinson.org

Dale Mohr, 85

Dale Jay Mohr, 85, of Zeeland, passed away peacefully on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026.

Dale was born March 22, 1940, in Coopersville to Cornelius and Kathryn (Miedema) Mohr. Dale attended Unity Christian High School and then served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1958-1962. He married Beverly Bos in July 1960. 

Dale owned and operated Mohr Electric for 24 years. Dale and Bev raised their children in Zeeland and were members of Vriesland Reformed Church. Dale and Bev and family were also charter members of Haven Christian Reformed Church in the late 1960s. He was preceded in death by his sons, Eric “Ricky” Mohr and Chad Mohr; and siblings, Carl “Butch” Mohr and Nancy Knoper.

He is survived by his children, Todd Mohr and Janine Gregorski-Mohr, Brent and Ann Mohr, and Jill and Kevin Ellerbroek; grandchildren, Jessica Mohr, Brittany Mohr, Aubree Gregorski, Miranda Mohr, Michaela and Riley Van Dyke, Spencer Mohr, Trevor Mohr, Chloe Mohr, Jett Ellerbroek, Kruz Ellerbroek, Marinna Ellerbroek and Caden Ellerbroek; great-grandchildren, Luka, Alex and Oliver; in-laws, Jay Knoper, Jan Mohr and Tony Woudwyk; and many extended family members.

A funeral service with military honors was held Wednesday, Jan. 21 at Vriesland Reformed Church, 6839 Byron Rd., Zeeland. Interment was in Zeeland Cemetery (Original). 

Memorial contributions may be made to Kids Hope USA.

Lisa Dunlap, 66

Lisa Marie Dunlap, 66, of Zeeland, passed away on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, after a brief but brave fight against cancer. 

She is survived by her brother, Dennis, and two daughters, Rose and Sophia. She was preceded in death by her father (1960) and mother (1986), and two sisters, Carolyn (1951) and Carla (2025). 

Lisa was born on Sept. 18, 1959, in Muscatine, Iowa to Winton Lee Dunlap and Helen Marie Dunlap. In 1965, she and her family moved to Holland. Lisa graduated from West Ottawa High School in 1978. She graduated from Grand Valley State University with a degree in Russian studies. Her employment was in the banking industry. She was well-liked at her place of employment in Zeeland.

After careful consideration, she decided to adopt children. In 2001, she traveled to Jiangxi, China to adopt Sophia, and in 2003, she traveled to Hunan, China to adopt Rose. Sophia is now 26 and working on a PhD in cancer biology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Rose, 23, graduated from Central Michigan University and is working in the marketing industry.

Lisa became ill in August 2025. She was finally diagnosed with esophageal cancer in November. She vowed to fight. However, the cancer had progressed too far. She is now with her Heavenly Father, her earthly father who passed away when she was eight months old, her mother, and her beloved pets Ben, Voishka, Scribble, Story, and Pounce.

A funeral service was held Wednesday, Jan. 21, at Immanuel Church, 325 104th Ave., Holland, with Pastor Alyn Goossen presiding. Interment was in Pilgrim Home Cemetery, Holland.

James Gentile, 79

Dr. James M. Gentile, 79, passed away Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Zeeland.

Dr. Gentile was born Aug. 31, 1946, in Chicago. He obtained a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s University, a master of science and PhD from Illinois State University, and undertook postdoctoral studies in the Department of Human Genetics at the Yale University School of Medicine. He joined the Hope College faculty as assistant professor of biology in 1976. 

During his 30-year tenure at Hope, he was a teaching and research professor, chairing the department from 1986 to 1988 and later being appointed dean of the natural and applied sciences from 1988 to 2005 and again from 2013 to 2015. He was honored with the Kenneth Herrick Professor of Biology and was an exchange professor at Meiji Gakuin University, in Tokyo, Japan (1986). 

Throughout his career, he was actively involved in the scientific community. He was an AAAS Fellow, a National Associate of the National Academies of Sciences, and a National Academies Education Mentor. He was the former Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal, Mutation Research and Past President of the U.S. Environmental Mutagen Society and the International Association of Environmental Mutagen Societies. He served on numerous boards, including Project Kaleidoscope in Washington, D.C., the Biosphere 2 Governing Board in Arizona, the Science Friday Foundation Board in New York, the American Association of Colleges & Universities Project Leap Initiative, and various committees and working groups for the National Academies of Science, the National Science Foundation in Washington, D.C., and the World Health Organization.

In 2005, Dr. Gentile moved to Tucson, Ariz. and became president of Research Corporation for Science Advancement, a foundation for science education and research. He remained with the foundation as president until 2013.

Throughout his career, Dr. Gentile mentored and trained more than 100 students in the area of scientific research, sharing his enthusiasm and dedication to science with his students. He extended his efforts to international centers of learning in the Netherlands, Mexico, Japan and Italy. 

Dr. Gentile is survived by his wife, Glenda; son, Michael, and Michael’s wife, Tricia, along with their two daughters, Makayla and Isabella; sister, Geraldine Wagner; and many nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Michael A. Gentile, and mother, Theresa Russo-Jeras.

A Mass in Dr. Gentile’s honor took place Saturday, Jan. 17 at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 480 152nd Ave., Holland. A celebration of life will be held at Hope College sometime this spring.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to “Gentile Interdisciplinary Lectures” at Hope College.

Michelle Zavala, 48

Michelle Zavala, 48, of Holland, passed away Friday, Jan. 9, 2026.

Michelle was preceded in death by her son, Darien Phimmasane, and her mother, Elaine Zwagerman.

Michelle was a member of Victory Point Church and was strong in her faith. She loved traveling with her family and helping others in the community do the same in her work as a travel agent. 

Michelle is survived by her husband of almost 20 years, Luis; children, Jessica Zavala and Jovani Zavala; father, Marvin Zwagerman; siblings, Laura and Mike Piechocki, and Tim and Lisa Zwagerman.

Funeral services were held Friday, Jan. 16, at Victory Point Church, 11530 Ransom St., Holland. Interment was in North Holland Cemetery. 

Arrangements were by at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

David Kolenbrander, 86

David L. Kolenbrander, Sr., 86, of Holland, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026.

David was an Air Force veteran, former volunteer fireman, computer programmer, and retired from Meijer.  He previously lived in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Nevada.

David was preceded in death by his parents, John and Eva Kolenbrander; sisters and brothers-in-law, Dale and Marylou Altena, and Don and Sandy Stepka; his first wife, Corinne Kolenbrander; and grandson, Mike Kolenbrander.

He is survived by his children, David (Linda) Kolenbrander, Dawn (Stephen) Bell, and Scott (Crystal) Kolenbrander; 13 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.

No services are planned. Arrangements were by at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

As humans the deep sorrow of grief will be part of all of our lives. We know that death is a part of life. Yet its arrival is inconvenient, unwelcome, painful. 

By Nancy Boote

Read: John 11:32-37
“Jesus wept.” (v. 35)

As humans the deep sorrow of grief will be part of all of our lives. We know that death is a part of life. Yet its arrival is inconvenient, unwelcome, painful. 

Experiencing grief alone is its own deep sorrow. But when others join us in our grief, we have the strength to face another day and to keep moving forward even when we don’t feel like it.

Jesus joined Martha and Mary as they grieved the loss of their brother, Lazarus. Martha and Mary did not understand why Jesus didn’t come earlier as they requested. They believed that he was the Messiah and could have prevented their brother’s death. But when Jesus saw Mary weeping, “He was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled” (v. 33). The Greek word used here implies that he was angry and agitated. He felt their pain and experienced his own deep sorrow. Jesus joined Mary and Martha in their grief and wept with them (v. 35).

How often have you been comforted when someone has sat and wept with you? Having someone who understands our grief is comforting. 

Mary and Martha were not alone. Yes, others mourned with them, but more importantly, Jesus mourned with them. Christ himself, who is “the resurrection and the life” (v. 25), did not abandon his friends in their time of need. In fact, he turned their grief into joy as he raised Lazarus from the dead. 

Take your sorrows, my friends, to Jesus who loves and cares for you.

As you pray, know that Jesus is with you when you grieve.

—————

Nancy Boote, an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America, lives in Holland with her husband. She serves in a vari­ety of leadership positions within the denomination. Besides being a wife, mother, and grandmother, Nancy enjoys taking prayer walks, hiking in nature, mentoring, and has a heart for jus­tice matters.

Randy Groenheide, 67, of Zeeland, passed away suddenly Friday, Jan. 9, 2026.

Randy Groenheide, 67

Randy Groenheide, 67, of Zeeland, passed away suddenly Friday, Jan. 9, 2026.

Randy graduated from Hamilton High School. Shortly after graduation, he began his career as an electrician. In the early 90’s he started Grand Electric. He married Connie Bledsoe on June 20, 1980. They raised their family in Zeeland and were members of Faith Reformed Church. 

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Connie; his children and grandchildren, Michael and Sheena Groenheide (Decklyn, Ella, Jaymes, and Knox), Rachel and Brett Jasch (Brinsley and Sawyer), and Brandon Groenheide; brother, Mark and Sara Groenheide; mother-in-law, Louise Bledsoe; and many extended family members.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Donna Groenheide; brother, Ron Groenheide; and father-in-law, Elbert Bledsoe.

A memorial service to honor Randy will be at 10 a.m. today at Family Church Ebenezer Campus, 5166 Ottogan St., Holland. 

Memorial contributions may be given to Family Church.

Melinda VanOrder, 53

Melinda K. VanOrder, 53, of Zeeland, unexpectedly passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026.

Melinda (Mindy) loved being with her family and friends. She worked for Fricano’s Too where she met some really good friends. She was a member of the Moose Lodge of Holland. Even though she had battled multiple sclerosis for a long time, she lived life the way she wanted to.

She is survived by her husband, Bruce VanOrder; children, Roxanne (Tommy) Phipps and Tyler (Jami) VanOrder; granddaughter, Alice VanOrder; parents, Tom (Anne) Thrasher and Bobbie (Barry) Staggs; parents-in-law, Art (Betty) VanOrder; brothers, T.J. (Alyssa) Thrasher, Eric (Angela) Kincaid, Kevin Kincaid, T.J. Kincaid, Matt (Amanda) Staggs and Josh (Megan) Staggs; sisters-in-law, Melanie (Doug) Engelsman and Amy Thrasher; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. today at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Interment will be in Borculo Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to The National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Londa Kroll, 63

Londa Jane Kroll, 63, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026.

She is survived by her children, Ryann and Amber Raab, Cassandra and Michael Dean, Candace and Zirin Switzer, and Christa Ingraham; grandchildren, Taylor Martinez, Abby Terpstra, Sierra Raab, Benjamin Brandsen, Brad Brandsen, Emily Brandsen, Cadence Adams, Eleri Adams, Kolton 
Adams, Hayden Switzer, Paul Ingraham, Paxton Ingraham, Ashton Ingraham and Destiny Ingraham; siblings, Ken and Alice Dunn, Laurie and Mark Reed, and Kevin and Shannon Dunn; and her nieces, nephews and extended family.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Jan. 16 at 2 p.m. at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland, with visitation prior to the service from noon to 2 p.m. Burial will take place in Fennville Cemetery.

John Rietsma Jr., 96

John Rietsma Jr., 96, of Zeeland, passed away on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026.

John was born Aug. 30, 1929 in Holland, to John Sr. and Agnes (Vander Woude) Rietsma. He graduated from Holland High School and then served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict from 1951-1953. He married Doris Westveld on April 15, 1955. They raised their four children in Zeeland and were members of First Christian Reformed Church. 

John worked as a tool and die maker at Hart & Cooley until his retirement. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Deb VandenBosch, in 2018.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Doris; their children, Mike and Robin Rietsma, Tim and Jody Rietsma, and Carrie VanDerKolk, son-in-law, Daryl VandenBosch; grandchildren, Brandon VandenBosch, Darcey and Rod Weber, Drew and Tracy VandenBosch, Angie and Kyle Walters, Mitch and Kristina Rietsma, Tanya and Greg Van Dyke, Troy Rietsma, Silas VanDerKolk and Abbie VanDerKolk; 12 great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.

A funeral service with military honors will be held Saturday, Jan. 17 at 2 p.m. at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Visitation will be from 1 to 1:45 p.m. Saturday, prior to the service. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Gentiva Hospice or the National MS Society.

Carolyn Redder, 88

Carolyn Mae Redder, 88, of Zeeland, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026.

Carolyn was born Aug. 5, 1937, in Hudsonville to Peter J. and Stella (Kuipers) Lubbers. After she graduated high school, she met Jason Redder from Zeeland, and they married on July 11, 1957. 

Jason and Carolyn raised their three children in Zeeland and Carolyn worked as a nurse’s aide in several area nursing homes. They were members of Haven Christian Reformed Church and Noordeloos Christian Reformed Church for many years. In 2005, Jason preceded her in death. 
Carolyn more recently became a member of North Street Christian Reformed Church.

She is survived by her children, Michael and Janice Redder, Jack and Dawn Redder, Cindy and Gord Van Dyke; grandchildren, Kyle and Meghan Redder, Curtis and Jill Redder, Kimberly and Jay Zomberg, Daniel and Lisa Redder, Laura and Ross Ulberg, Katelyn and Sean Hamstra, Derek and Nikki Van Dyke, Greg and Tanya Van Dyke, and Emilie and Todd Rillema; 20 great-grandchildren; siblings, Larry and Sandy Lubbers, Kathy and Roger Berens, and Gloria Smith; and many extended family members.

Carolyn was also preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Jim Lubbers and Pat Berens; parents-in-law, Harry and Elizabeth Redder; and many siblings-in-law.

A funeral service was held Monday, Jan. 12 at North Street Christian Reformed Church, 20 E. Main Ave., Zeeland. Interment was in Zeeland Cemetery (Lincoln Avenue location). 

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland.

Stephen Scott, 98

Stephen Scott, 98, of Holland, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026. 

A memorial service with military honors will be held Monday, Jan. 19 at 11 a.m. at Central Avenue Christian Reformed Church, 259 Central Ave., Holland. Burial will be in Zeeland Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service, also at the church. 

Arrangements are by the Dykstra Funeral Home-Downtown Chapel.

Martha Vander Ploeg, 91

Martha Vander Ploeg, 91, of Zeeland passed away at Resthaven Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.

She was a longtime member of First Reformed Church in Zeeland, where she was active in the Ladies Aid and helped coordinate and serve funeral lunches. Martha worked for the city of Zeeland for 15 years and worked as the election chairperson for the city for many years.

She is survived by her children, Bob and Marybeth Vander Ploeg, Rick and Linda Vander Ploeg, Judy and Curt Vander Ploeg, and Nancy and Ron Oskam; grandchildren, Chris and Brenda Vander Ploeg, Michelle and Tom Michmerhuizen, Ryan and Heather Vander Ploeg, David and Rachel Vander Ploeg, Matthew Vander Ploeg, Joshua Vander Ploeg, James Vander Ploeg and Kenzie, and Erica Oskam; 12 great-grandchildren; sisters, Joyce Stempfly, Evelyn and Harvard Hoekje, and Gloria Culver; sister-in-law, Judy Hoeve; and several nieces and nephews.

Martha was preceded in death by her husband, Paul; and siblings and their spouses, Marjorie Anderson, Harvey and Marjorie Hoeve, Carolyn and John Harsevoort, Herman Hoeve, Roger and Helene Hoeve, Louis Stempfly, Marion Hoeve, and Louis Culver.

Funeral services were held Friday, Jan. 9, at First Reformed Church, 125 E. Lincoln Ave., Zeeland. Interment was in Zeeland Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland or Resthaven.

Autumn DeWild, 48

Autumn DeWild, 48, of Zeeland, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2026 in the care of hospice and staff at the Medilodge, after the long journey that is dementia. 

Autumn was born in Iowa to Marcia and Ken DeWild, and lived in Michigan much of her life. Arriving in the fall season, she was literally mom and dad’s “Autumn Rose” surprise.

Autumn loved Jesus and loved to dance, and dance she did after receiving life-changing open-heart surgery as a child. She was a member of the Living Light Dance Company and performed liturgical and interpretive dance to inspirational (and bumpin’) music before numerous audiences locally and regionally.

Autumn had Down Syndrome and was one of the first students with DS to graduate from Zeeland High School. She took continuing education classes at the local college and art studio. Autumn also worked as a dishwasher, greeter, and bagged groceries at Family Fare for many years.

Autumn was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents (Gerrit and Pauline, and George and Georgia). She leaves behind her brother George, sister-in-law Melissa, niece Skylar, and nephew Logan, along with a horde of family and friends.

Her ashes will be scattered on her favorite day, and Autumn’s name will be carved on the GVSU Memorial Wall.

In the place of a funeral or sending flowers, instead Autumn would want you to make some art today, give someone a hug and ask them to dance (yeah, right now), or stop in your tracks when opportunity strikes and practice admiration for a creature that should simply be appreciated, even if only from a distance.

Local donations matter to folks like Autumn, and your generosity is welcomed at artsinmotionstudio.org/donate, noorthoekacademy.org/donate and gvsu.edu/giving.

Margaret Hall, 76

Margaret Ann Hall, 76, of Zeeland, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026. 

Born on Oct. 7, 1949, Margaret was a faithful and hard-working resident of Zeeland. She married the love of her life, Les Hall, with whom she shared a deep bond until his passing. Together, they raised three daughters: Michelle (Bernie) Santos, Lisa (John) Hoffman, and Melanie (Wayne) Boersen.

Margaret was a devout Christian and a founding member of Holland Baptist Church, where she dedicated much of her time and energy. Her community involvement was a testament to her faith and her generous spirit. Professionally, Margaret worked for Prince Manufacturing for more than 25 years, demonstrating her hard-working nature and commitment to excellence.

She is survived by her daughters; siblings, Lonnie Calloway and Melinda Quigley; brother-in-law, James Hall; sister-in-law, Colene Braden; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. 

A celebration of life is being planned and will be announced at a later date.

Ron Visser, 83

Ron H. Visser, 83, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, in Zeeland.

He was born on Aug. 25, 1942, in Haarlem, the Netherlands, to Henry Visser and Renee DeBoer Visser, the youngest of five brothers. In 1953, at the age of 11, he immigrated to the United States with his family, settling in West Michigan, where he would spend his life.

Ron graduated from Zeeland High School and began a long and steady career in retail management, spending many years with Sears Roebuck. Alongside his retail career, he worked as a part-time school bus driver for West Ottawa Public Schools. After retiring from Sears, Ron returned to bus driving full-time, transporting special-needs children.

Ron’s faith and daily devotion were a steady and grounding presence throughout his life. His commitment to church, prayer, and routine reflected a life shaped by discipline, service, and quiet perseverance.

Ron is survived by his children, Scott Visser of Fort Lupton, Colo. and Shelly Whitney of Denver, Colo.; grandchildren, Sid Visser, Anna Whitney, Aidan Whitney, Kyle Jordan and Owen Whitney; his longtime partner, Marilyn Jones; and most importantly, his beloved dog, Cooper. He is also survived by extended family and many friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 17 at 11 a.m. at Christ Memorial Church, 595 Graafschap Rd., Holland.