Nancy Jane McDonald Brachman, 94, died on April 10, 2017.  A long-time resident of Allegan, she moved to Kalamazoo in 2006 and enjoyed living in Friendship Village, where she was very active.  
Nan was born Oct. 22, 1922, in the Detroit area, the daughter of Raymond and Eva (Nesbitt) McDonald, and grew up across the street from Peter Brachman, whom she married in 1942. They moved to Allegan a few years later to set up his medical practice and raise their family.
Nan was a great "doctor's wife"-she listened well, kept others' confidences and always looked on the positive side. She was an active part of the Allegan Hospital Service League and candy striper program, and helped start Wings of Hope Hospice.  
Nan was a good friend to many of all ages, and a roll model to her daughters and many of their friends. She loved hearing about lives different from her own from people who looked, sounded and lived differently than she did.  
She was an avid reader and an "active listener" before the term was coined! Volunteering wherever she saw a need and had an interest, she especially found satisfaction in being Mrs. B to the kids at Dawson Elementary School who needed a bit of extra attention.  
After moving to Friendship Village, she became involved in a program jointly hosted by Western Michigan University and Friendship Village. This program paired an elder with a student who needed someone to talk to. These students were often from immigrant families or at risk in other ways of not finishing their education. She loved this contact and encouraged other elders to participate. Her first student is in nursing school and working at Friendship Village. She often visited Nan after her shift was over.  
Bright colors became her theme and made her slightly notorious! She started this trend by painting dabs of gold paint on almost anything that didn't move fast enough. She then painted on "big" shirts and made large, bright beads for bracelets and necklaces-envied by many. When she moved to Friendship Village the first thing she did was have her apartment painted-purple and lime green! She had to leave her door open because so many residents and their families wanted to see the result. It was stunning.
Nan enjoyed her family and kept in touch with all of them.  After moving to Friendship Village, she learned how to email and skype to make this easier, from Thailand to Africa and everywhere in between.  She even "lurked" on Facebook to keep track of what was happening in their lives-and the lives of their friends.  
Always encouraging, never critical, the only parental thing that her daughters remember her saying as a guide was: "If your friends jumped off a bridge, would you? Think about it first." 
She was Nan to her friends and her brother Ray; mom to Stacey (John) Guthrie, Ellen (Peter) Altamore and Lisa Brachman; gramma to Laura (Jim) Ragonese, Jeff Ward, Michael Altamore and Mark and Christine Guthrie; and GGB to Cody and Kaelyn Ragonese.
She'll be missed by us all, but anytime we need her we can just follow the dabs of gold paint...
In accordance with Nan's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no memorial service.  If you'd like a way to remember her, please consider a donation to Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn St., Allegan, Michigan 49010 or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, 222 N. Kalamazoo Mall, #100, Kalamazoo, MI 49007.
 

Paul Rudolph Whitney, 91, weighed anchor to sail the heavenly seas on Wednesday, March 8, 2017.  
He was born April 4, 1925, in Allegan to Irvin Paul and Christina Alberta (Hoke) Whitney. He married Mabel Joyce Scalf in 1943. They were married 22 years and raised five children. He married Betty Jane Weston in 1966, and they were married 47 years.  
Rudy was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to hunt and fish. He spent most of his life on or near the water. He knew the calls of birds, the names of plants and trees, and the signs of passing animals.
In 1943, he joined the United States Navy and served in the South Pacific until the end of the war. He attended Western Michigan University.
Upon his father's death, he returned to Allegan to work alongside his grandfather in the family business. In 1963 he joined the Allegan County Sherriff's office as a deputy. He served the county for 20 years, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant.
He never passed up the opportunity to learn something new. He was a lifelong learner and teacher.
In retirement, Rudy and Betty traveled from the U.P. to the Gulf coast, eventually making a home on the St. Mary's River. In 2012, they returned to Allegan. He was Betty's caregiver until her death in 2014. In 2015 he moved to Texas to live with his daughter April in Fort Worth.  
Rudy was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Gloria Gates; his first wife Joyce; his wife Betty; a son, Scot "Rick" Whitney; and, a granddaughter Lindsay Moore.
He is survived by his brother Ed Whitney; sons, Errol Whitney (Jenny) of Holland, Marc Whitney (Linda) of Texas and Albert Lallinger (Judith) of Shelbyville; daughters, Paula Whitney Legg of Holland; April Whitney Annaloro (Len) of Texas; Marie Lallinger Smith (Gary) of Allegan; and, Gail Lallinger Pursley (Bill) of Florida; numerous nephews and nieces, grand and great-grandchildren and beloved friends.
Rudy loved life and the people in his life. Come celebrate his life with us Memorial Day weekend.
 

Kelli Jo (Steinman) Roberts, 57, of Gobles passed away Thursday, April 6, 2017, in Oshtemo Township.
Kelli was born Sept. 12, 1959, in Allegan, the daughter of Arthur and Marian (Pennell) Steinman and has lived the majority of her life in the Gobles area. She was currently an inventory specialist with Bosch Automotive in Kalamazoo.
Kelli enjoyed riding her motorcycle, cooking, gardening, Blue Grass music festivals and had a special group of friends who were very close and often got together and shared many good times.
She adored her daughter Renee and granddaughter Juliet, and was excited for the birth of her second granddaughter Alice. She always put others before herself and enjoyed taking care of her family.
Kelli had a huge heart, an even bigger smile and always found a way to light up any room she was in.
Surviving are her daughter, Renee (Keith Scott) Roberts of San Diego, Calif.; granddaughters, Juliet and Alice (on the way); parents, Marian Robinson of Gobles and Arthur (Violet) Steinman of Allegan; sister Diana Rankin of Bloomingdale; two brothers, Arthur (Terry) Steinman of Plainwell and Gary (Barbie) Steinman of Bloomingdale; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her stepfather Sam Robinson.
According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be a later date when all friends and family can be present.  
Arrangements are being provided by the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.
 

Thelma Kasprzyk, 84, of Allegan, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, April 10, 2017 at Ely Manor in Allegan.
Mrs. Kasprzyk was born April 2, 1933 in the city of Huddersfield located in West Yorkshire, England. She was the daughter of the late Colin and Lucy (Lockwood) Broadbent and wife of the late Tadeusz Kasprzyk.
She met the love her life, Ted, after World War II in England. Ted and his family emigrated from Poland to America in 1951. Shortly after her 18th birthday, Thelma made the journey across the ocean arriving into Ellis Island in April of 1952. Arriving in a new country, alone, Thelma waited three days in New York for Ted and his family.  Ted and Thelma married shortly thereafter in Chicago.  Together they studied and began the legal process of becoming a United States Citizen, in which they were both so very proud of.  
They settled and made their home in Chicago, had three boys, and traveled to Allegan on the weekends where they farmed the land. They eventually relocated permanently in Allegan, where Ted opened up Ted's Auto Body Shop, Inc.  
Thelma was a one-of-a-kind lady who brought love, laughter, and joy wherever she went.  If you ask her children, they would say that she was a brave and adventurous soul who was full of personality and that love just "flowed" out of her. She was a vivacious and funny woman who brought great inspiration to those around her.  
Thelma was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church for more than 40 years.  She enjoyed getting out among people of all ages, volunteering at Forever Curious Children's Museum and cooking dinners or desserts for Wings Home in Allegan.
She was a member of Lifelong Learners, and occasionally met for lunch with her life long friends and former co-workers of Tru-Heat Corporation where she was employed for several years.  
Her love for her family was always foremost in her life though. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren felt blessed to have such a wonderful woman as their role model and will miss her beautiful smile and gentle spirit.
Thelma is survived by her three boys, Rich and Louise Kasprzyk, Chris and Bethany Kasprzyk and Matt and Mary Kasprzyk; her grandchildren, Cory Kasprzyk, Erin (Matthew) Thunander, Allison Kasprzyk, Kieran Kasprzyk, Zachary Kasprzyk, Hannah (Spencer) Vasquez and Emma Kasprzyk; her two great-grandchildren, Margaret and Lucy Thunander; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding her in death and welcoming Thelma to her heavenly home were her parents, Colin and Lucy Broadbent; siblings, Norman, Lewis, and Freida; husband Tadeusz (Ted); and daughter-in-law Deborah (McCullough) Kasprzyk.
Friends will meet with the family on Monday, April 17, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to p.m. at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, where the rosary will be recited at 6 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, April 18, at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. A luncheon will follow at Blessed Sacrament's Saint Edwards Hall.   
Memorials may be made in Thelma's name to Forever Curious Children's Museum, 202 East Main St., PO Box 1101, Fennville, MI 49408.   
Arrangements are being provided by Gorden Funeral Residence, www.gordenfuneral.com.
 

Anneliese Miller, 83, of Allegan passed away Sunday, April 2, 2017, at the Allegan County Medical Care Community.
Anneliese was born Feb. 21, 1934, in Darmstadt, Germany, the daughter of Elizabeth Niederwieser and Wilhelm Pasche. Orphaned at an early age during World War II, Anneliese was adopted by Lily and Ludwig Metz and grew up in Lissberg, Germany.
Anneliese met Gary Miller of Allegan while he was stationed at an area Army base in Germany; they were married in 1958 and returned to Allegan.  Her first years in the United States were spent caring for her daughters. She later served as accounts manager for Dr. William Brown, cooked for several years at Allegan General Hospital, and worked in the kitchen of the Allegan County Juvenile Detention serving residents and staff.  
One of her greatest loves was grooming and training Standardbred horses, and she spent many years working at racetracks across the country.
She became a U.S. citizen a few years before her retirement in 1999. Most weekends, she could be found on the dance floor. She spent time traveling with friends, visiting her daughters, and never missed the horse races at the Allegan County Fair.  Her caring nature made her an angel to many.
Surviving are her daughters Tonya Miller of Cambridge, Mass. and Michele (Ron) Nelson of Scottsdale, Ariz.
According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.
 

Harold H. Lemley, 67, of Allegan passed away April 12, 2017, in Allegan.
Harold was born Dec. 25, 1949, in Allegan, the son of Harry and Caroline (Carpenter) Lemley. He had worked at Hardings, Rockwell, GE, and retired from Menasha in 1993.  He enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time with his grandchildren.  
On Dec. 27, 1970, in Hopkins, he married Terri Hitt who survives. Also surviving are his children, Nancy Lyons and Leanne Lemley; two grandchildren, Luke and Brooke Lyons; and several cousins and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter Paula Ann Lemley; and his siblings, Kenneth Lemley, Caroline Berry and Patricia Palmer.
Cremation has taken place and private family services will be held.
Contributions in memory of Harold may be made to the ASPCA or Wings Home. Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.
 

After a 17-year courageous battle with cancer, Susan Lea Ensfield, 64, of Fennville passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, at home with her loving family surrounding her.
She will be dearly missed by her husband of 43 years, Larry; her son Brett Ensfield, daughter-in-law Kate Ensfield and beautiful granddaughter Blake Ensfield, daughter Amanda Haverdink, son-in-law Chris Haverdink, beautiful granddaughter Ava Haverdink and handsome grandson Carter Haverdink.
Susan cherished nothing more than spending time with her family and making wonderful memories with her grandchildren.
Susan was born Feb. 13, 1953, the youngest of six children of William and Elsie Bushee. She is survived by her brother, Jim Bushee of Arizona and sister Ella (Odus) Fiveash of Arkansas.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Elsie Bushee; her brothers, Ralph Bushee and Robert (Sue) Bushee; sister Marie (Gary) Squire; and nephew John Squire.
Susan extended her kindness and love to her nieces and nephews, Heather, Tonya, Nancy, Cynthia, James, Tammy, William, Marcia, Angela, and Lisa.
Among her many talents, Susan was an accomplished pilot, successful retired business owner of The Glenn Store, and very skilled genealogist and local historian.
Susan and Larry carried on the family tradition of farming with their peach orchard and popular roadside stand. Another favorite pastime of Susan's included cruising around the local areas with Larry in one of their many classic muscle cars.
Please join Susan's family in a celebration of her life and sharing of special memories on Saturday, April 22, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Beeches Golf Club, 09601 68th St., South Haven.
In lieu of flowers or memorials, please make a special memory with a loved one.
An online registry book is available at www.chappellfuneralhome.com
 

Vicki Lynn Hale, 61, of Allegan passed away Thursday, April 13, 2017, at her home surrounded by her family.  
Vicki was born Feb. 26, 1956, in Allegan, the daughter of Lester and Norma (Ellis) Page. She married the love of her life, Ron, on Sept. 11, 1976, in Bloomingdale, and had lived in the area her entire life.  
Vicki had worked for Citizens Trust Savings Bank and the Bloomingdale Telephone Company. She enjoyed her trips to the casino, yard sales and family vacations. Vicki also enjoyed drag racing and the community of Bloomingdale. Most of all, she cherished spending time with her family and friends.  
Surviving is her husband Ronald; son Andrew (Tiffany) Hale; grandchildren, Allison, Mackenzie and Zoey; her mother Norma; siblings, Deb (Ed) Brady, Susie (Pat) Smith, Lester (Toni) Page, Beverly (Steve) Page, Mary Lou (Steve) Page, Robert Page, Ronald (Joy) Page, Mark (Sharon) Page, Kim (Marty) Earl and Julie (Troy) Hipps; a special sister, Brenda (Mike) Long; many nieces and nephews; and lots of special friends.  
She was preceded in death by her son Keith; father Lester, Sr.; and a brother Richard.  
The family will meet friends on Friday, April 21, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Bloomingdale High School Gym. Funeral services will be at the High School Auditorium on Saturday, April 22, at 2 p.m.  
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Wings of Hope Hospice, Allegan.  
Arrangements are being provided by Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.
 

Gale Smith, 87, of Allegan passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 15, 2017. He was born Dec. 15, 1929, and raised in Allegan. He served three years in the United States Navy and worked 25 years at the Kalamazoo Gazette as a typesetter.
Gale loved to read, fish and crafted a terrific cold duck. He enjoyed coffee with lifelong friends in Allegan for many years.
He is survived by his wife Vadra Hansen; sons, Greg (Robin), David (Fran), and Randolph (Robin); step-daughter, Amelia (Paul) Nehring; four grandchildren, Shane, Corinna, Ashley and Ashley; and five great-grandchildren.
No memorial service will be held per his wishes. Arrangements were provided by Whitley Funeral Home, Kalamazoo, www.whitleymemorialfuneralhome.com.
 

Josephine (Josie) Merbs, of Allegan passed away Wednesday, April 12, surrounded by family and loved ones.
Josie  is survived by her siblings, Margaret Fuerst, David (Veronica) Merbs, Nancy Hammer, Mary Lou Guinn, Catherine (Fred) Mireles, John (Kim) Merbs, Barbara (Dennis) Earl and Joann (David) Petroski; brother-in-law David Nelson; her house-mate for more than 30 years, Jackie; and extended family Ann Stough, Missy Prichard, Jan Batey, Penny Evans and Linda Cook.
Words can't express the gratitude the family has for Ann Stough and the Allegan Dam Home staff of caregivers for the many years of care. Special thanks to MOKA, ARS and Allegan CMH for the loving care and support in Josie's life.
Josie was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Madelyn Merbs; sister Janet Nelson; brother Jim Merbs; sister-in-law Helen Merbs; and brother-in-law Terry Hammer.
A funeral mass for Josie will be Wednesday, May 3, at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, 110 Cedar St., Allegan, with Fr. Ben Huynh officiating.  Family will meet with visitors one hour prior to mass.  
In lieu of flowers, donations to Wings of Hope Hospice would be appreciated.
Arrangements are being provided by Young Funeral Home of Muskegon. To sign the on-line guestbook, visit youngfh.com
 

Clarence Artis "Art" Osman, 68, of Allegan passed away Saturday, April 22, 2017, at his home. Born June 20, 1948, in Paw Paw, he was the son of the late Clarence C. Osman and Kathryn Braisher and was the husband of the late Karen Marie Nash Osman.  
Art was a graduate of Mattawan High School in 1966 and was later drafted to the United States Army to serve in Vietnam. He retired from the United States Postal Service after more than 30 years of dedicated service as a clerk and a carrier. Art had also spent five years volunteering his time at Pine Trails.
He is survived by his children, J.D. Osman and wife Stacy, and Julie Frerichs and husband Todd; grandchildren, Matthew, Michael and Katelyn Osman, and Trevor Frerichs; brother, Joe Osman and wife Sigi; sisters, Kathy Frame and husband David, Janet Richcreek and husband Don, and Rosemary Boyco; and his stepmother, Margaret Osman.
The family will gather at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, on Wednesday, April 26, from 4 to 7 p.m. to receive friends and celebrate Art's life.  Flowers are welcomed, or donations may be made to Hospice of West Michigan.  
Arrangements are being provided by Gorden Funeral Residence, www.gordenfuneral.com.
 

Rodger Steven Rietkerk, 63, passed away at his home in Plainwell on April 14, 2017. He was born Feb. 10, 1954, the son of Bill and Maymie (Marlatt) Rietkerk.
A graduate of Plainwell High School,  he is survived by his mother Maymie Rietkerk; his first wife Darline Rietkerk and their children, Sarah Austin and Clayton Rietkerk.
He is also survived by his wife Kay Watson; his sister Rozann/Danny Osborn; brother Douglas/Pamela Rietkerk of Minnesota; his and Kay's children, Tamara/Kevin Dressler, Rebecca/Erik Colwell, Mary Kay Burley, Gordon Paul Burley, Chad/Kat Crow, and Stephanie Crow; grandchildren, Morgan Dailey, Kaitlyn Watson, Tate and Nevaeh Dressler, James, Michael, Genevieve and Isabella Colwell, April, Shelby, John Burley, Carl, David Burley, and Juniper Crow; his nieces and nephews, Joyce/David Amato, Steven Osborn, Greg/Patty Callum Osborn, Ceili Robinson,  Anneke/Mark Riess, Liesl Rietkerk,  Nathan, Ashley, and Ashton Yablonsky; along with his many adopted children.
Rodger loved his family and friends, fishing, hunting, bowling and helping anyone he could, including mentoring and coaching Plainwell High School's bowling league. He was a man of many trades in life, a bus driver for Plainwell schools, mechanic for Plainwell Lanes, and a driver for Dave's towing to name a few. He was a loving father and a loyal friend to all who knew him.
Rodger will be greatly missed and eternally loved by all.
The family will have a memorial service and small luncheon on Saturday, April 29, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Old Plank Road Restaurant, 137 N. Main St., in downtown Plainwell. All who would like to join in remembering him with his family will be welcome, along with any pictures and stories you would like to share.
Due to the suddenness of this death, donations will also be accepted to help defray burial cost.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Thomas Earl Hoke, 66, of South Haven, passed away Tuesday, April 25, 2017, at his home. He was born March 21, 1951, to Jack and Dorothy (Anderson) Hoke in Plainwell.
A lifelong learner, Tom graduated from Hastings High School in 1969 and would go on to earn his bachelor's degree from Alma College in 1974, Master's Degree in Education from Michigan State University in 1975, and Educational Specialist degree from Western Michigan University in 1985.
Tom married Sheryl Ann Esterly on Aug. 21, 1976, in Jackson.
Tom came from a long, celebrated line of teachers and educators. He taught middle school and elementary school for Manistee Public Schools, then became the principal for Bloomingdale Middle School. He then went on to serve as the superintendent for Bloomingdale Public Schools for close to 20 years.
A dedicated and skilled educator, Tom was passionate about raising up generations of students and caring for their families. He believed in building up his colleagues and united everyone around him in striving for excellence in their work.
A lover of nature, Tom enjoyed fishing, gardening and spending time outdoors. He loved being close to Lake Michigan and enjoyed many summers with his family on its shores.
In his younger years, Tom was a competitive athlete, and early in his career, served as a varsity wrestling and football coach. Throughout his life he enjoyed watching college basketball and football, especially MSU.
Tom found his greatest joy in his family and his legacy lies in his wife, children, and granddaughter. He cherished time spent with them, including shared meals, holiday celebrations, memorable travel adventures, and lots of laughter as Tom had a very unique and memorable sense of humor. His faith in God was also a cornerstone for his life and he was a member of Hope Reformed Church in South Haven.
Tom's competitive drive, persistence, and stubborn positivity lead him to persevere through many difficult life challenges, which he met with courage and hope.
Tom is survived by his loving, nurturing wife of 40 years, Sheryl Hoke; treasured children, Ryan (Jacqui) Hoke, Janna (Charlie) Hoke and Jordan Hoke; beloved granddaughter Imogen Hoke; caring brothers, Stephen (Kitty) Hoke and Jeff Hoke; and mother-in-law, Mae Esterly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Dorothy of Hastings; his father-in-law Fredrick Esterly and his brother-in-law Steven Esterly both of Jackson.
Visitation will be Thursday, May 4, from 3 to 4 p.m. at Hope Reformed Church in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 4 p.m. at the church with Pastor Steve Smallegan officiating.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tom's memory to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, http://pulmonaryfibrosis.donorpages.com/Tribute/TomHoke. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family's online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
Arrangements are being provided by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven.

Donna Beery Heavilin, 91 of Douglas passed away April 23, 2017. Donna was born in Fennville on June 16, 1925, to Harry and Delia Sargent.
Donna graduated from Fennville High School in 1942. She was active in her community as an Eastern Star Member, a Sunday School teacher and the church treasurer. She worked at what was known as Taft's Super Market for nearly 30 years.
Before working at Taft's she was a stay at home mom doing side jobs such as picking cherries, taking in ironing and cleaning cottages on the lakeshore. She delighted in spending quality time with her family and loved her Detroit Tigers.
Donna loved traveling to the Upper Peninsula and spending time on the beach, even up until her last day on this earth when she and her daughter Donita made a trip to Lake Michigan. After her retirement you could not find her at home, but traveling extensively including places like Australia, New Zeeland, Hawaii, Alaska, Panama Canal, and numerous cities throughout the United States.
A life well traveled, her positive outlook was shared with all.
Donna was proceeded in death by her husband of 38 years Harold Beery; second husband of 22 years Charles Heavilin; parents, Harry and Delia Sargent; sisters, Dorothy Skinner and Ellen Hall; and great-grandson Chad Ethan Germain.
She is survived by her biological children, daughter Donita Beery and sons, Bill (Nancy) Beery and Don (Patti) Beery; step-children, Celeste (Bob) Gerde, Patti Rummler, Bixby Heavilin, Dan (Char) Heavilin, Anna (Brian) Males and John (Lana) Heavilin; 21 beloved grandchildren; numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren and a large extended family.
A funeral mass was Friday, April 28, at St. Peter Catholic Church, Douglas. Visitation was at Dykstra Funeral Home-Saugatuck Chapel, on Thursday, April 27.
Memorial contributions can be to The Saugatuck Scholarship Foundation (S.S.F.), 524 Marshall Street, Allegan, MI 49010 or Christian Neighbors Inc. 100 St. Peter's Drive, Douglas, MI 49406.
Arrangements were provided by Dykstra Funeral Home, www.dykstrafuneralhome.com.

Christina June (Barber) Albers, 85, passed peacefully into the Lord's welcoming arms on April 29, 2017. Chris was born July 15, 1931, to Niles and Rose (Moon) Barber in Toquin, Mich.
Chris loved music, art, writing, was a longtime Detroit Tigers fan and Michigan Football's biggest fan. She had a great sense of humor that accompanied her happy-go-lucky nature, which carried her through as her health failed. She leaves many family and friends with loving, funny memories.
In addition to her parents and husband, Chris was preceded in death by her six siblings Lorraine, Verne, Franklin, Gordon, Charles, and Elizabeth.  
Christina is survived by daughter Sharon (Tom) Saarela of Saugatuck; grandchildren Crystal (Jonathan) Funckes of Zeeland, Nicholas Saarela of East Lansing, and Jenna Saarela of Saginaw. Additional survivors include brothers-in-law, David (Lois) Albers and John (Lynda) Albers; sisters-in-law, Irene Albers, Alice (Vern) Avery, MaryEllen (Marvin) Hall, Doris (Jack) Sutherland and Judy Beckwith; many nieces and nephews; and goddaughter, Dawn Lawson.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Christinas life will be Friday, May 26, at 11 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 77 W. 32nd St., Holland, with Pastor Ryan Winningham officiating.  Arrangements are being provided by Dykstra Funeral Home-Mulder Chapel. For an online registry, visit www.dykstrafuneralhome.com.
 

Jim (Vander) Kodde, 69, of Douglas departed this life on May 4, 2017, after a short battle with cancer.
He was preceded in death by his parents Harold (Dutch) and Esther (DeVries) VanderKodde and is survived by his husband Gary Alpers, his step-daughter Rachel (Annika) Alpers and his adoptive sister Georgia (Doug) Everse, their children Nick, Philip, Dasha and their extended family and friends.
Jim was born in Grand Rapids on Aug. 11, 1947. Raised in Jenison, he graduated from Hudsonville High School in the Class of 1965 where he was named "Best Dressed," a distinction that would follow him throughout his life.   
After high school Jim was called to serve his country in Vietnam and he did so honorably from 1966 through 1968. Jim was a veteran of the United States Army 6th Convalescent Center in Cam Ranh Bay and felt a deep and lifelong appreciation for the sacrifices of the men and women who serve.
In 1969, Jim began working at Steelcase Inc. He enjoyed a 25-year career at Steelcase in sales administration, pricing and contracts and government sales. A few short years into his first retirement, he was recruited by Herman Miller where he spent 15 years leading government contract negotiations.
In 2012, Jim started Kodde Consulting, applying his unique expertise in general services administration to help other companies in the furniture industry build internal capacity and knowledge for successful contract development.
In 2015, he decided to take another run at retirement to spend more time enjoying life, the love of his life Gary, and his many interests.
Jim loved all forms of art, flowers, gardening, Lake Michigan, European travel, fine food, good wine and spirited conversation by the fire with friends that he cherished.
He had a knack for design, and for making even ordinary things beautiful. He advised everyone who would listen on the importance of proper lighting and ambiance.
Jim was an avid reader and news junky. He was fiercely liberal and cared deeply about the human experience of people outside of the mainstream.
In 2014, Jim was able to legally marry his partner of 23 years in Palm Springs at the beautiful home of their close friend Peggy Eskenasi, a blessing he never thought would happen in his lifetime and one that he prayed will continue to be available to future generations of God's LGBT flock.
"For You alone formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well." Psalm 139: 13-14.
Jim was loved unconditionally and is survived by his adoptive mother Tina Afendoulis; special cousins Marcia (Doug) Halloran and children, Brandon, Shannon, Shawn and Dana; Pat (Dave) Allen and Sharon (Paul) Spielmaker; Special niece Dawn (Steve) Anderson.
He treasured his friendship with and will be deeply missed by Hugh Dodge, Scott Tagliapietra and Jim Ramthun, Ben Kubicki, Erik Lee and Joe (Precious) Firmiss, Laura and Bill Benson, Karen Kramer, Dave Bowes, Cynthia Ashton and Marguerite Riker.
During his years at Steelcase and Herman Miller Jim had many friends and colleagues with whom he shared a host of wonderful memories. You know who you are and although time and distance got in the way of frequent contact, he held those memories close to his heart and they always brought a smile to his face.
Jim enjoyed many years of living in Douglas and visiting Milwaukee, Wis. and Gulfport, Fla., where he established many special relationships and where he will be remembered with love.
We have been changed for the good because we knew you Jim VanderKodde. You will always be in our hearts and we will think of you every time we laugh until we snort, and most certainly every time we dim the lights. Rest well, until we see you again, in a place of light, in a place of green pastures, in a place of refreshment, where there is no pain, sorrow or suffering, but life everlasting.
Private gatherings to celebrate Jim's life are being planned by the family. To sign a remembrance book go to SimplyCremationService.com. For those who are so inclined, Jim and Gary would appreciate donations to Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn St. Allegan, MI 49010. Wingsofhopehospice.com and Lainie's Angels, 1138 Michigan St. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503, Lainiesangels.org.
 

Harold R. "Banjo" Cutcher passed from this life into his new life on Friday, May 5, 2017.
He was a resident of Life Care Center of Plainwell where he had made his home since 2010. He was born on Sept. 6, 1929, the son of Lambert and Myrtle Cutcher.
Harold was a lifelong resident of Plainwell. In his younger years he relished riding around town on his bicycle, visiting shops and checking out garage sales. He loved bright clothes and enjoyed talking with those he met on his explorations.
He lived a unique life and was known to many. As a family we are appreciative of the small town atmosphere that sheltered him.
Harold is survived by his brother Ralph (Bernice) Cutcher of Minnesota; a sister-in-law Lois Cutcher of Wisconsin; and numerous nephews and nieces in various parts of the country.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father Walter Harmon; brothers, Cletus and Edward; as well as his only sister Mirian.
The family wishes to thank all those, known and unknown to them, who showed Harold acts of kindness throughout his 87 years of life. "No good deed goes unrewarded."
We especially thank the staff of Life Care who became his second family when we could not be there, and the extra care provided by Great Lakes Hospice in his final weeks.
There will be a private memorial service on Saturday, May 13. In honor of Harold's life we ask that you do a meaningful act of kindness for someone today.
 

Francis Rodney Dunklee Sr., 97, of Martin passed away on May 6, 2017, at the Allegan Medical Care Facility.
He was born on Feb. 5, 1920, to Warren and Eva (Nye) Dunklee at Center, Ohio. Francis worked as a repairman for Bishop Appliance, Zeinstra Appliance Repair in Martin. He worked at Leeps Farms until he was 85 years old.
On June 13, 1942, he married Rosa Kaylor and she preceded him in death after 62 years of marriage in 2004.
He was a life member of Wayland VFW, and attended First Congregational Church of Otsego until his health prevented him.
Francis is survived by two daughters, Sharon Godzwa and Elaine (Hollis) Ross; son David (Peg) Dunklee; 16 grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren; 18 great-great grandchildren; wife Vivian; and three step-sons, Steve Dunklee, Jerry (Theresa) Dunklee and Tim (Julie) Dunklee.
He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife Rosa Dunklee; siblings, Kenneth, Vernon and Evelyn; son Francis "Rod" Rodney Dunklee Jr.; son-in-law Frank Godzwa; grandchild Tina Godzwa; and great-grandchildren Ashley and Vanessa.
Visitation will be Wednesday, May 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Services, Wayland. Funeral services will be Thursday, May 11, at 11 a.m. at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Services.
Burial will be in East Martin Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to the Wayland VFW.
Online condolences can be made by visiting www.kubiakcook.com.
 

Daniel "Dan" Groh passed away on Tuesday, May 9, 2017, following a valiant struggle against cancer. He was courageous and never lost his sense of humor.  
He is survived by both his loving wife, Diane (Oetman/Harwood) Groh and his stepson, Jerid Harwood.
Dan was born in Detroit on April 13, 1950. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Frances Groh, as well as many aunts and uncles. His only surviving aunt is Charlotte (Groh/Cook) Brant.  
He is also survived by five Groh brothers, Dennis (Carole), Douglas (Peggy), David (Sharon), Dale (Kim) and Dean; two nephews; six nieces; several great-nieces and -nephews; and two brothers-in-law, Ronald Oetman and David (Sandy) Oetman.
The family will receive friends at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, on Thursday, May 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. A funeral service will be Friday, May 12, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. A procession to Hudson Corners Cemetery will be for the burial immediately following the service.  
Anyone wishing to make a memorial donation is requested to donate to Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn St., Allegan, MI  49010.  
Arrangements are being made by Gorden Funeral Residence, www.gordenfuneral.com.