Connie Lynn Meyer, 68, of Holland, Mich., passed away in the early morning hours of Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020 at home. 

Born June 26, 1952 in Zeeland, she was the daughter of the late Harold Chester and Gertrude (VanEden) VanderMolen and was the wife of Griffin Darryl Meyer.

Connie was the owner and operator of Connie’s Day Care, which she had opened in 1983.

She was a devoted and loving mother and could always be found on the sidelines cheering on her children and their teammates at every one of their sporting events.

She was an avid animal lover who always left her heart and home open for strays and their puppies. Above all else, Connie found the greatest joy in being a grandmother to her six beautiful grandchildren.

In addition to her husband of 48 years, Griffin, she is survived by her children, Neal (Jaimi) Meyer, Heidi (Matthew) Diaz and Kyle Meyer; siblings, Carol (Larry) Frankland and Ken (Sharon) VanderMolen; and grandchildren, Logan, Bree, Ian, Griffin, Mariana and Austin. 

Connie was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Gertrude; and her brother, Gary VanderMolen.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be planned for a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland, 270 Hoover Blvd. Holland, MI 49423; or Harbor Humane Society, 14345 Bagley St., West Olive, MI 49460. Chappell Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Melvin Hershaw, Jr. passed away Aug. 25, 2020 in Kerrville, Texas. 

He was born April 6, 1949, in Douglas to Melvin and Gertrude (Deike) Hershaw. He graduated from Fennville High School and later graduated from Kendall College in Grand Rapids.

Melvin moved to Texas and worked in advertising and commercial art for several years in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. He retired to Hunt, Texas, where he owned and operated a hunting ranch in the Texas Hill Country for many years.

His passions were motorcycles, his collection of classic and custom cars, and his dogs.

Melvin is survived by his sister, Sally (Kendall) Page, of Holland; nephew, Frank (Kelly) Swecker, of Fennville; and niece Amy (Dan) Bench, of Holland. 

A private graveside service will take place at a later date. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Saugatuck.

For more information, or to sign an online register book, please visit dykstrafuneralhome.com

Gary was born in Kokomo, Ind., to John and Thelma (Burkhead) Stitt. He married Diana Russell in June of 1988 and dearly loved and cared for her all those years.

Gary was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He was a machinist and retired from Edmar Mfg. He enjoyed making birdhouses and feeding the birds, bowling with Diana in a Saugatuck league, fishing and hunting.

He was preceded in death by his infant son Terry.

He is survived by his wife Diana and children: Jeff Stitt, Lori Van Dyke, Tony Haist and Bill Stitt all from Michigan; stepchildren: John T. Moore and Claudette Moore; 6 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild; brother: Mike Stitt; mother-in-law: Emily Russel; brothers-in-law: Alan Russell, Doyle Russell and Art Russell; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Cremation will take place and a private memorial service is planned for a later date. Arrangements are by Dykstra Funeral Homes – Mulder Chapel. 

To sign an on-line registry or leave a memory, please visit www.dykstrafuneralhome.com.

Marilyn Ann (Thompson) Sipple, 78, passed away on Friday, August 28, 2020.  Born February 24, 1942 in Allegan, Michigan, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Anna (Schafer) Thompson. She received her associate degree from Western Michigan University and worked as a teacher in Title I at Martin Public Schools for over 10 years.

Marilyn grew up in the Allegan area, one of six brothers and sisters, all of whom she cherished deeply. On June 23, 1962, Marilyn married Jack Ronald Sipple, a farmer from Martin, Michigan and spent their 58 years together working side-by-side on their dairy farm and enjoying family life with their children and grandchildren. The two explored far-off places together and also volunteered building churches and schools through the Builders for Christ organization. Marilyn is remembered as an incredibly compassionate and intentional mother. A true family woman at heart, she made sure that they took family vacations—prioritizing time together. Ever a doting mother, Marilyn was just as nurturing as a grandmother.

All her life, Marilyn was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. One of the last things that Marilyn wrote was, “The belief I am most passionate about is my faith and knowing that God is always with me and I will be with my Savior in eternity.”

Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Kathleen Lane, brother-in-law Carl Sandahl and sister-in-law Sharon Kelly (Roger). Surviving are her husband Jack; children Christine DeBruyn (Arthur), Karen Hildebrand (Ted), Kirt Sipple; son-in-law Terry Lane; grandchildren John Waldsmith, Allison DeBruyn, Breyanna Waldsmith, Megan Ward (Kristopher), Catherine DeBruyn; siblings Maxine Sandahl, Bernice Wentzel (Charles), Paul Thompson (Sara), Lawrence Thompson (Sharon), Carolyn Miner (Don); sister-in-law Joyce Suhusky (Frank); and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The family received friends at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, on Monday, August 31, 2020 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.  A funeral service took place at St. John’s Lutheran Church on Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at 1:00 pm.  Burial in New East Martin Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church or to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.

Johnnie Junior Boerman, 80, of Cheshire Township, passed away Sunday, August 30, 2020 at his home.  He was born July 25, 1940 to John and Laura (Wolf) Boerman in Allegan, Michigan. Johnnie was an excavator and owned his own business for several years.  In his younger days, Johnnie was a race car driver.  His car number was 55.  He raced in Kalamazoo, Galesburg, Indiana and in Pullman at Jones Speedway.  He enjoyed boating in South Haven on his 23 foot Sea Ray and motorcycling in Sturgis, South Dakota and Daytona Beach.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Johnnie is survived by his wife and companion of 26 years – Donna Rutkowski; children – John (Shelly) Boerman of Allegan, Donnie Boerman of Munster, Indiana and Dixie Kovach of Bloomingdale, Michigan; 2 grandchildren – Colte Boerman and Courtney Gonzales; and four great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Wednesday, September 2, 2020 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 12:00 PM with Pastor Milan Bittenbender officiating. Johnnie will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in Allegan. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Dan Robert Smith, 68, of Allegan, MI passed away Sunday, September 6, 2020 at Bronson Methodist Hospital.  Born February 19, 1952 in Pontiac, he was the son of the late Robert and Edith (Schindler) Smith and was the husband of Christine (Salva) Smith.  Dan taught woodworking at Meridian High School in Sanford, MI for many years which he was deeply passionate about.  He had an expansive woodworking shop in his barn as well.  Dan was an avid outdoorsman and had especially loved hunting and fishing.  His greatest joy, however, came from spending time with his two beautiful grandchildren, Brennan and Jake.

In addition to his wife, Christine, Dan is survived by his children, Laura Smith, Tom York and Tracey (Jeremy) Finney; his siblings, Bruce (Kathy) Smith, Jean McCormick and Susie (Mike) Hubert; and his grandchildren, Brennan and Jake Finney.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Edith Smith; and his brother-in-law, Charlie McCormick.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.  Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Clifford Jerry Bollinger, 82, of Allegan, MI passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at Briarwood Assisted Living.  Born February 10, 1938 in Lakeview, MI, he was the son of the late Donald K. and Lela (Shelly) Bollinger.  On October 20, 1956, Jerry married Kay Ellen Perrigo; they would have celebrated their 64^th wedding anniversary this year.  He was a graduate of Allegan High School and had worked for Rockwell International for thirty years prior to retirement.  Jerry was an avid outdoorsman, loving nature and many outside activities, especially going fishing or boating with Kay in northern Michigan.  They also have traveled the United States extensively, visiting lots of national parks along the way. Jerry was very creative and was able to design and build anything he put his mind to in his metal and wood shops.  He was a caring and kind gentleman who was always willing to lend a hand to a friend in need

In addition to his wife, Kay, Jerry is survived by his daughter, Deborah Kay Bollinger; and his sister, Janice Farley.  Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Thomas J. Bollinger; son-in-law, Ronald Edward Cone; and his sister, Lois King.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.  Memorial donations may be made to Wings of Hope, 530 Linn St., Allegan MI 49010.  Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, is assisting the Bollinger family.

Our precious little angel, Brantley Richard Frost, beloved infant son of Trevor Frost and Caitlynn Morgan went to be with our Lord on Friday, September 4, 2020. 

In addition to his parents, Brantley is survived by big sister, Remington; grandparents, Andy and Trish Winter, Ray Frost, and Terry and Denise Morgan; great-grandparents, Mark and Deb Heather, Bob and Mae Sousley, Diana McLaughlin, Dave and Cindy Davis, Bob Frost, Donna and Gary Morgan, and Jaime LaFountain; great-great grandparents, Ellie Clark, Alice Armstrong, and Eleanor and Donald Barringer; his aunts and uncles, Trey and Nikki McLaughlin, Joe and Amanda Tiseo, Allison Winter, and Nathan and Samantha Rife; along with numerous very special great aunts, great uncles, cousins and friends.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital for the incredible care provided to Brantley.

Private services will be held.

To help the family with medical expenses, memorial donations may be made in Brantley’s honor through the Brantley Frost Memorial Fund in care of Deb Heather at 1787 Holiday Lane, Allegan, MI 49010 or through Venmo@deb-heather.

Rachel Leona Wait, of Allegan, MI passed away Monday, September 7, 2020 at Wings Home.  Born September 25, 1935 in Allegan, she was the daughter of the late Willard and Mildred (Sprague) Jennings.  Rachel was the widow of Allen Wait.  She was a proud, life member at the Allegan United Methodist Church.  Rachel enjoyed serving families through the food pantry in the church.  She also served hot lunches for 19 faithful years with North Ward Elementary School.  Among her other favorite things to do, she was exceptional with a crocheting needle.  Rachel enjoyed crocheting and knitting prayer shawls, lap blankets, baby booties, and blankets for her friends and family.  She was an avid bingo and cards player, including putting puzzles together.

Rachel is survived by her four children, Helen (Wait) DeLobel, Debra Dykema, Penny (Tony) Emmons, Scott (Michaella) Wait; her brother, Willard (Judy) Jennings; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Along with her parents and husband she is preceded in death by her sister Rosalia Jennings.

There will be a private graveside committal service at Hudson Corners Cemetery.  Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Mary Lou Ewing, 96, of Hopkins, MI passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at Allegan Country Estate.  Born September 14, 1923 in Grand Rapids, she was the daughter of the late William and Christine (Meyers) VanHill and was the wife of the late Duane K. Ewing.  Mrs. Ewing was a longtime member of South Monterey United Methodist Church.  She had worked Weick’s Department Store in Hopkins for twenty years where she especially enjoyed talking with customers throughout the day.  During World War II, while her husband was away, she went to work as a machinist for a short time.  Mrs. Ewing gave of her time by volunteering as a candy striper at Allegan General Hospital.  In her spare time, she loved to cook and crochet and was talented quilter.  During their retirement years, she and her husband traveled extensively and spent more than thirty years wintering in Florida.

Mrs. Ewing is survived by her children, Byron Ewing and his fiancé, Niki, and Colleen Banks and husband, Fred; brothers, William VanHill and Robert VanHill; grandchildren, Paul Collier, Todd Collier, Kevin Collier, Matt Collier, Jeff Collier, Alison Kuchta, Angela Keilman, Nicole Schaendorf, Katie Simpson, Josh Ewing, Travis Ewing and Russell Hassevoort; and a host of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Steven Ewing; and her daughter, Susan Collier.

The family will receive friends at Gorden Funeral Residence, Hopkins Chapel, on Friday, September 11, 2020 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.  A graveside funeral service will take place at Winchester Cemetery, Byron Township on Saturday, September 12, 2020 at 11:00 AM.  Memorial donations may be made to South Monterey United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 356, Hopkins, MI 49328; or to Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn Street, Allegan, MI 49010. 

In the wee hours of Thursday, September 3, 2020, God blessed Glenna Jean with the end of her earthly journey.  She was born October 5, 1926 in Jackson, MI to Johnathon Porter and Wynnie Mary (Sebright) Hastings Jr.  Glenna graduated from Jackson High School in 1944 and Jackson Community College in 1945.  She met her future husband, Charles Henry Kurtz, on a trip to visit relatives in Allegan in 1946.  Charles and her cousin, Bill, were friends and that weekend they had planned a night on the town and Glenna joined them.  Charles and Glenna corresponded and dated briefly.  Charles proposed at the Holland Tulip Festival and they were married June 1, 1946.

Glenna was a homemaker and involved in her children's activities including Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and 4-H.  She was a member of the Wayland VFW Auxiliary and a secretary for the American Red Cross.  After the children were grown she returned to work at Kelly's Home Center and was mailperson at the resort they lived in while in Florida.  They traveled to Florida many times and when Charles retired they spent their winters in Florida and summers in Michigan until just before Charles passed away.

In addition to her parents and stepmother, Velma Hastings, Glenna was preceded in death by her husband, Charles; son, Dart; brother and sister-in-law, Arland and Patsy Hastings; and sister, Janet Shearer.

She is survived by her children, Jacquelyn (John) Tyrrell, Darlene (Gilbert) Lynn, Nanette Kurtz, Dane (Cindi) Kurtz and Charlene (Don) Coon; nine grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; sisters, Jane Trowbridge and Phyllis Vandermeer; brother-in-law, Robert Shearer; and sister-in-law, Luella Holmes.

Per her request cremation had taken and there will be a private family service at the time of interment at Hudson Corners Cemetery.

Contributions in her memory can be made to the Generations Adult Day Care Program at Allegan County Medical Care Facility, 3265 122^nd Ave., Allegan MI 49010.

Lyle Lynn Thomas, 75, of Hastings, formerly of Allegan, fell asleep in death September 6, 2020 at Hastings Rehabilitation and Health Center after an extended battle with Vascular Dementia.  He was born August 13, 1945.  He often told his children that when the Japanese heard he had been born they surrendered.  He took credit for his birth ending World War II.

Lyle was the youngest child of Earl M and Leva Lucille (Frederick) Thomas.  There were three older brothers and one older sister.

Lyle was predeceased by his parents, his brother Charles (Mighty), his brother Robert (Bob), and grandson Alexander James Thomas.

 Lyle is survived by his wife of 41 years, Mona, their sons Charles (Carrie) Thomas, Frederick (Cecilia) Thomas, daughters Julia (Matt) Christman, and Kathleen (John) Wass, grandsons Joseph and Henry Thomas, and granddaughter Honora Lea Wass, brother James (Phyllis) Thomas, sister Earleen (John) Barber, and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.

Lyle grew up on a farm and was no stranger to chores. His father would say “to find the easiest way to do a job, give it to the laziest person” and assign Lyle the task.  Being the youngest he occasionally found himself with some free time.  This gave him time to observe and appreciate the wonders of nature.

Lyle graduated from Allegan High School in 1963.  He joined the Marine Reserves and, after basic training, spent some time in Puerto Rico before his discharge in 1970.  He worked some printing related jobs in Kalamazoo before working with Wedge Office Machines in Allegan, doing both sales and service. He also sold and serviced sewing machines for various sewing related shops.  Lyle also worked as a projectionist at the Regent Theater in Allegan.  When he moved to Hastings in 1984 he established Advantage Business Machines and sold and serviced office and sewing machines independently.

Lyle loved live theater.  He volunteered countless hours with the Allegan Community Players working on lighting and sound designs and other technical aspects of live performances. He was equally happy backstage or as an audience member, loving to attend shows at the Augusta Barn, WMU’s Miller Auditorium, or a local high school or community theater group. He experienced extra thrills when his wife or one of his children were performing.

He also loved being outdoors.  Taking the family on camping trips and sharing his appreciation for the surroundings, and campfires, brought him great joy.  His children were given every opportunity to observe the awesome wonders of creation. They were taken to waterfalls, canyons, mountains, lakesides, zoos, forests, historic sites and places of scientific importance.

He took great delight in watching his children grow into the fantastic, well-rounded adults they are today. As each one found a mate and married, Lyle’s heart expanded to welcome the new family member. His greatest joy came with the birth of grandchildren. Dubbed Pop-pop, Lyle doted on each new baby as if it were the only baby in the universe.  Even in his last days a photo of the grandchildren would bring a smile to his face.

Lyle was a member of the Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Hastings, being baptized in 1998.  He had faith in the promise of an awakening from death. His family looks forward to welcoming him back and to Revelation 21:4 finally being fulfilled.

Respecting his wishes cremation has taken place.  A virtual memorial service is being planned. If you wish to make a charitable donation in Lyle’s name please consider a gift to the local congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, your favorite zoo, Elara Caring Hospice, or the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital NICU.

The family thanks the staff at Hastings Rehabilitation and Health Center and Elara Caring Hospice for the care they gave Lyle. The timing of his residency and the pandemic lockdown created challenges unlike anything we were prepared for. Thank you for your steadfast attention during these difficult times.

The family is also very grateful for the services provided by Koops Funeral Chapel in Lake Odessa.

Linda Carol (Alm) Sobol passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2020 at the age of 81.

She is survived by her sons Daniel and Michael, daughter Amy, daughters in law Lydia and Carissa and grandchildren William, Genevieve, and Eris. She was preceded in death by her brother Robert, husband Paul, and son Patrick.

Linda was born on Nov. 6, 1938, to Bob and Ruth Alm in South Haven. She made friends easily and kept them for a lifetime.

Linda had several careers throughout her life: she earned her teaching degree at National Teacher’s College in Evanston, Ill., and taught kindergarten until Daniel was born.

Linda married Paul Sobol in 1963, and was a devoted mother to Dan, Mike, Amy and Pat. She entertained many as a driver for the Interurban in Saugatuck.

After Paul’s death in 1987, Linda returned to get her master’s degree from Western Michigan University and worked as a clinical psychologist for Van Buren County until she retired in 2016.

Linda was an active member of both the Saugatuck and South Haven communities throughout her life. Her infectious laughter and generous heart will long be remembered by those whom she cared for and those who love her.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Sept. 26 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven with Pastor Eric Jarvis officiating. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, (269) 637-0333.

Our beloved mom Sally June Huitt Bilotta went home to heaven on August 20, 2020.  She was born in Allegan, MI. on June 26, 1937.  She graduated from Allegan High School.  Then went to University of Miami and met her husband Arthur Bilotta (deceased). They had a wonderful marriage living in Cocoa Beach, FL where they raised four children, also lived in CA, Washington DC area and later retired to Hendersonville NC.

Sally was a beautiful woman inside and out who spent many years as model, even worked on the Space Shuttle for a short time.  But her gift to her family was in loving her husband, her children and her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She was an amazing mom, who sacrificed much so we could be blessed.
Besides her family, her passions were tennis, friends, neighbors, swimming, DAR, singing, her dogs and church.  She quickly made a friend of each person she met.  Every summer she opened her home to all her children and grandchildren and gave them sweet memories.

Her son William Arthur Bilotta, daughter in law Dale Bilotta, daughter Sally Bilotta Burke, son in law Ed Burke, daughter Sandy Bilotta Breinlinger (deceased), son in law Art Breinlinger and son Arthur Bilotta along with 16 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren will miss her greatly, but we are grateful for the time we had with her and that she is at home with Jesus.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Four Seasons Hospice in Hendersonville, who are wonderful.

Billy Wesley Smith, longtime Allegan resident, left this earth to reside with his Lord and Savior on Monday, September 21, 2020. Bill was born on November 1, 1932 in Clarksville, Tennessee, the son of Turner and Dottie (Evans) Smith, he was the second of four sons. Bill worked the family farm alongside his dad and brothers Turner Jr. and John. He attended the Sango School and went on to graduate from Clarksville High School in 1951. During his younger days he enjoyed playing baseball and basketball. A highlight for him in his teenage years was to go with his brothers and cousins to town on a Saturday night for a movie, burger and a coke, a well earned reward for a long week of work and school.

After graduation Bill continued to work the family farm, along with a farm he and Turner Jr. purchased. A few years later, he received his draft notice and joined the Navy. He served on the USS Stallion, stationed in Port Everglades, Florida. During his stay in the Navy he met “his sweetheart” Lois Pickitt, from Allegan, Michigan on a blind date. When his duty in the Navy was over, he returned to Clarksville. Bill made several trips to Michigan to see Lois, until they married on February 28, 1958. They resided in Houston for one year, then returned to Michigan.

Bill began working in the gravel business for his Father-in-law, Harry Pickitt. In 1973 Bill purchased the company and it became known as Bill Smith Sand & Gravel, headquartered in Otsego, Michigan. He ran the company until 1999, when he sold it, and began Aggregate & Developing, in 2006, which he ran with his son Wes.He was a member of First Baptist Church in Allegan, for many years, where he served as a Trustee, Deacon and Usher. He also served on the Board of Trustees, at Cedarville University in Ohio. Surviving is his wife Lois Smith; daughter, Cassandra (Smith) Atkins; Son, Wesley (Melanie) Smith; his grandchildren, Savannah (Alan) Devine, Raven (Justin) Ellicott, Liza Atkins, Shanel (CJ) Nightingale, Deidre (Zach) Radcliffe, Madelyn Smith, and Hudson Smith; great-grandchildren, Connor, Gavin, Emma, Brayden, Marleigh, Lyric, and Charlotte.

He is preceded in death by his parents Turner and Dottie; brothers, Turner Jr., John and James; brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws, Charles (Wildarene Pickett) Sheffer, Boone (Miriam Pickett) Cook, and John (Reva Pickett) Miller. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Bill may be directed to Camp Beechpoint in Allegan, or Wings of Hope Hospice. Service times and location will be posted on Gorden Funeral Residence webpage www.gordenfuneral.com

Please join the family for a special exhibit/open house in remembrance of Jerry Catania Saturdays and Sundays, Oct. 3, 4, 10 and 11, from noon until 5 p.m. each day at Bob Catania’s building, 5095 Red Arrow Hwy., Stevensville, immediately south of Meijer. Social distancing and masks are required. If you need special day/time accommodations, contact Kathy Catania at kcatania@gmail.com. 

Jerry is survived by his wife, Kathy; his brother, Robert, of Stevensville; brother-in-law Keith Bundy of St. Joseph; and in-laws Hal and Natalie Bundy of Watervliet. 

Memorials may be made to Water Street Glassworks at 140 Water Street, Benton Harbor, MI 49022, or online at www.waterstreetglassworks.org. The Glassworks web page includes a “donate” button. Those wishing to share a memory of Jerry online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. 

Judith Oberholtzer of Douglas passed away Aug. 25, 2020.

Most folks “fight” or “battle” their cancer. Judy mostly ignored it, choosing instead to live! She went on vacation to Mexico with family, kept doing volunteer work and stayed in her home until the end in the loving care of her children Sarah and John Oberholtzer.

No doubt if there is an organization looking for a new board member in the great beyond, Judy just signed up. She was a volunteer extraordinaire, always looking to find ways to make her community better and more vibrant. 

She was a charter board member of Chamber Music Festival of Saugatuck, president of the Saugatuck Area Business Association, helped start the student program Art a Loan, West Shore Aware board member, on the Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society board, on and on. 

Judy was born in Chicago, April 8, 1933, to Einar and Irene Johnson. She was the first of three girls. At the age of 11, Judy had to leave home to recover from rheumatic fever. That time instilled in her a determination and independence that served her all her life. There was no quit in her. 

She headed off to DePauw University, pledging Delta Gamma. There she met Bill Oberholtzer, a coal miner’s son interested in theater, opera and books. It was a match!

Judy taught elementary school while Bill was away in the Army. Then came kids: Girl Scouts, crafts, vacations in Maine and picnics were a lot of fun!

Judy had a heightened sense of style and fashion all her life. When the kids became more independent, she trained to become an interior designer, taking night classes after Bill returned from work. She graduated, put her shingle out and the clients came. 

When Bill retired, the couple “took a left” on life, landed in Saugatuck and opened the Design Shoppe.

Judy’s lasting impact came from her style of leadership. In her volunteer efforts she had a knack for getting the right group of folks together, working well with others, and knowing when to compromise and when not to.

Judy loved to entertain. Numerous board meetings, envelope stuffings, book clubs, etc. were hosted in her home.

She was deeply involved in her faith and the Community Church of Douglas, contributing time, money and lending her interior design skills when the church built their current home.

Judy loved her kids and grandchildren unconditionally. She and her daughter Sarah were best friends, a relationship that was important for Judy after Bill’s passing. 

All who came to visit in her last days spoke of her kindness, generous spirit and not a judgmental bone in her body. These folks were treated to Judy’s best quality: being a true and loyal friend.

A memorial service for Judy will be held at the Douglas Community Church Oct. 2 at 3 p.m. Afterward, outside the church under a tent with social distancing, will be a time for visiting and refreshments.

Pay tribute to Judy with contributions to Chamber Music Festival of Saugatuck, West Shore Aware or Hospice of Holland.

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Irma Irene Wamhoff passed away at age 97 on Sunday September 20, 2020.  Irma was born in Krem, ND to Edward and Amalia Oster.  She grew up helping on the family farm and often told of times she drove horses, once as many as six at a time.  She often took her siblings to school in a sleigh or buggy.   Irma moved with her family to Hopkins, Michigan when she was a teenager. She worked as a housekeeper and nanny, at Weick’s grocery store and at JCPenney’s in Allegan as a salesperson and window dresser.  Irma married the love of her life, Raymond Wamhoff, on June 16, 1950.  She worked tirelessly as a partner with Ray in the dairy farm business and homemaker raising her children, Daniel, Kathleen, Charles, Timothy and Jayne. 

Irma always had a funny story to tell, a joke or some sage advice to offer.  She would often say “To each his own said the old lady as she kissed the cow” or when worrying about the cleanliness of your house she would say “No one should look for their cow there” then add “It always sounds better in German.”

Irma was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Raymond Wamhoff; son, Timothy Wamhoff; sisters and brother, Viona  Seals, Delora Tarno, Norman Oster; brothers /sisters in law, Bill Seals, Bud Tarno, Al Shultz, Dale Smith, Norma and Robert TerAvest, Marvin Wamhoff, Ray Langen, and Fred Jacoby.  

She is survived by her sisters, Erna Smith and Gladys Schultz; sisters/brother in law, Betty Oster, Winona Langen, Carroll and Marlene Wamhoff, and Marcia Jacoby.  Irma is also survived by her children, Daniel (Gwen) Wamhoff, Kathleen (Robert) Scofield, Charles (Barbara) Wamhoff, and Jayne (Robert) Moore; as well as grandchildren, Timothy (Donna) Wamhoff, Edward (Deanna) Wamhoff, Paul (Lindsay) Wamhoff, Stephan (Whitney) Wamhoff, John (Julia) Wamhoff, Daniel (Kaitlyn) Scofield,  Robert (Eunji) Moore, Stephanie Moore and Timothy Shin, Melissa Moore and Sean Rogers, Amanda Moore and Casey Hayes, Ashley Moore, Christina Moore, Madelyn Moore, Craig (Lori) Lang, and Andrea (Steve) Price.   In addition, Irma was blessed with great grandchildren, Braden Wamhoff, Cole Wamhoff, Mason Wamhoff, RaeAnna Wamhoff, Isaiah Wamhoff, Benjamin Wamhoff, Michaela Wamhoff, Jameson Wamhoff, Ellie Wamhoff, Elliot Shin-Moore, Sean Moore, Lydia Price, Alex Price, Kaela (Jonathon) Dolan ,and Kortney (Tyler) Lister; and great great grandchildren, Hudson Dolan, Rhett and Holden Lister.

The family will receive friends at the family farm (2080 130^th Ave., Hopkins, MI 49328) on Saturday, September 26, 2020 from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at which time a funeral service will begin.  Burial will follow in Maplewood Cemetery, Hopkins Township.  Gorden Funeral Residence, Hopkins Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Thomas Charles Rochow, 77, of Allegan, MI passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 23, 2020 in his own home surrounded by family.  Born November 26, 1942 in Bay City, MI, he was the son of the late Robert John and Mildred (Gies) Rochow.  Thomas graduated high school in 1961 from St. Mary’s School in Bay City.  He went on to study at Western Michigan University where he earned his Bachelor of Education.  Thomas married the love of his life, his beloved wife Donna Marie Wallunas, on June 3, 1967 in Kalamazoo who he remained in love with for fifty-three blessed years.  He lived in Allegan for fifty years where he was an educator in the Allegan Public School System for thirty years teaching 5^th and 6^th grades at Dawson Elementary.  Thomas retired from teaching in 2000 and pursued his hobby of computers.  He worked in several computer stores and helped many in the community keep their computers running.  Thomas was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church for fifty years where he had developed the first website for the church and maintained it for many years.  He was an avid fan of football and was always rooting for the Lions on Sundays.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Donna.  He was the proud father of Dorothy (Kevin) Snow, Pete (Chris) Rochow, and Anne (Carl) Neuenfeldt; and very special grandpa to Ryan Snow, Jake Snow, and Abe Ritz.  Also left to cherish his memory are his sister, Barb (Paul) Anderson; sisters-in-law, Mary Rochow and Aggie Wallunas; and several nieces and nephews.  Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Rochow.

The family received friends at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, on Tuesday, September 29, 2020 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  The Rosary was recited at 7:00 PM.  A memorial mass took place at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 at 11:00 AM.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, 222 N. Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 100, Kalamazoo, MI 49007; or Blessed Sacrament Good Samaritans’ Food Pantry, 110 North Cedar Street, Allegan, MI 49010.  Gorden Funeral Residence is assisting the family with arrangements.

Thomas Alan Meiser, 63 of Granville, Tennessee, formerly of Allegan, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, September 2, 2020, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center.  Tom was born Thursday, December 6, 1956 in Allegan, Michigan to Raymond and June (Brainard) Meiser. 

Tom grew up in Allegan, Michigan, and resided there most of his adult life.  He began working at jobs in the medical field as a young man in the late 1970’s and made a career working as a paramedic in the western Michigan area. He spent his free time teaching CPR and AED use to churches and communities.  He finished his career in November of 2018 retiring from AMR in Fennville, MI after 24 years.  Tom enjoyed music and spent many hours DJing parties, as the Sunday morning on air personality for WAKV, The Memory Station, and singing karaoke.  It was while spending time at karaoke that he met the love of his life, Katrina.  They married on July 11, 2008 and made a wonderful life together.  Tom also enjoyed studying God’s word and sharing it with others. 

After retiring from AMR, he and his wife moved to Granville, Tennessee, where he became a member of Life Church, serving on the jail ministry team in Jackson County.  Tom loved to serve others and even in retirement joined the Nameless and Granville Fire Departments and was instrumental in starting the medical first responders.  Most of all he loved his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Katrina Meiser of Granville, TN; four dogs, Chet, Millie, Penny, and Sammie; three sisters, Sheila (Mark) Kriebel of Granville, TN; Ann (Dan) Benard of Allegan, MI; and Denise (Joe) Klein of Granville, TN.  One brother, Jim (Rachel) Meiser of Allegan, MI.  Aunts and Uncles, Leon and Alice Klaasen of Hamilton, MI; and Gordon Brainard of Hopkins, MI. Nieces and Nephews, Jason Kibby of Lafayette, GA; Rayn (Richard) Galloway, of Granville, TN; Job (Brandi) Kriebel of Bloomington Springs, TN;   Alek Meiser-Renton of Wheaton, IL; Ethan Benard, Hannah Meiser, and David Meiser all of Allegan, MI; and Alex Klein of Schaumburg, IL.  And many cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings.

A visitation will be held at Allegan Assembly of God, 424 Delano Street, Allegan, MI, on Friday, October 9 from 5 pm to 7 pm.  Saturday, October 10 at 11 am there will be a private memorial for family and close friends which will be broadcast live on Allegan Assembly of God’s Facebook page.