Columns

Harvey Allen Vander Bie, 93, of West Olive, went home to his Lord and Savior on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

Harvey Vander Bie, 93

Harvey Allen Vander Bie, 93, of West Olive, went home to his Lord and Savior on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

Harvey was born on Sept. 28, 1932 in Holland, where he was raised with seven siblings. He graduated from Holland High School in 1950, and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1952-1954.

After working for TNT Holland Motor Express for 35 years, Harvey retired and took up growing blueberries for the next 30 years. Harvey and Ruth attend Victory Point Church.

Harvey is survived by his wife of 70 years, Ruth (Lawrence) Vander Bie; son, Jeffrey (Nancy) Vander Bie; daughters, Susan (Craig) DeVries, Kimberly Vander Bie, and Kerri (Robert) Coles; grandchildren, Bruce (Stacey) Vander Bie, Tiffany (Bill) Brouwer, Matthew (Erin) DeVries, Andrea DeVries, Haven Vander Bie, Adam (Alexandria) Coles, Nathan (Jessica) Coles, and Zachary Coles; nine great-grandchildren; and brother, Bill (Carla) Vander Bie.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, Nov. 11 at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland, with Pastor Matt Yount officiating. A private family burial ceremony with full military honors took place at the gravesite.

David Veen, 79

David Lee Veen, 79, of Hamilton, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025.

David was very involved in the Allegan County Fair for many years as a 4-H leader showing cattle. He was a farmer and lived a simple life. He was loved by his family and will certainly be missed.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of Heritage Nursing Home in Zeeland for the excellent care their father received in his final days.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Veen; and brothers, Kenneth Veen and Larry Veen.

He is survived by his son, Josh Veen; daughter, Amanda and Adam Gaulke; sister-in-law, Karen Veen; sister-in-law, Alice DeGraves; nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A private family service was planned. Burial took place in Overisel Cemetery.

Jaidyn Espinosa, 23

Jaidyn Elizabeth Espinosa, 23, passed away suddenly on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025.

Jaidyn was born Sept. 13, 2002, in Holland, to Carlos and Melissa (Bronkhorst) Espinosa. She is survived by her parents; son, Landyn Espinosa-Counterman; significant other, Timothy Counterman; siblings, Jessica Espinosa, Jamie Espinosa, Courtney and Ruben Carreno; grandparents, Mike Sr. and Virginia Bronkhorst, and Ondina Pas; aunts and uncles, Mike Jr. and Melinda Bronkhorst, Kristin and Nate Vork, Chad Pas, Brian Pas, Barbara Espinosa, Anna Espinosa, Ruben Epinosa and Vicky Espinosa; and many extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Andrea Espinosa; grandfather, Rene Espinosa,and  great-grandmother Flora Mayans.

A funeral service was held Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St. Interment was in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.

Please consider a memorial donation to a GoFundMe account at gofundme.com/f/help-us-honor-jaidyn.

David Boneck, 75

David Edwin Boneck, age 75, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. 

Born on Friday, Oct. 13, 1950, Dave lived a full and generous life marked by creativity, kindness, and friendship.

Dave was a great friend to many, always ready to lend a hand or share one of his many bright ideas. Known for being incredibly handy, he could fix or build just about anything — and often did, with a smile and a story to go with it. His thoughtful nature and willingness to help others made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

David is survived by his sister, Delores and Larry Harbison; a niece and nephews; as well as his friends.

A graveside service was held Tuesday, Nov. 11 at West Olive Cemetery, near 8970 136th Ave., West Olive. Visitation preceded the service at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Frank Spitters, 102

Frank Spitters, 102, was welcomed into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025.

Frank was born in Kalamazoo, on Sept. 27, 1923. Following his service in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from 1941 to 1945 during World War II, Frank married Elaine Hybels. In 1955, he introduced offset lithography to West Michigan by founding Kalamazoo Litho Plate. Over the next 25 years, he guided the company as president of KalaCraft, expanding operations with branches in Evanston, Atlanta, and San Mateo.

Frank and Elaine were among the founding members of Haven Reformed Church in Kalamazoo. He served his church faithfully — as co-general contractor for the Haven Church construction on Sprinkle Road, and in leadership roles within his congregation, the West Michigan Classis, and the General Synod of the Reformed Church in America. He also served as board president for the Words of Hope radio ministry.

In retirement, Frank and Elaine dedicated many years to service through the Mobile Missionary Assistance Program, traveling throughout Michigan and the southwestern United States to support churches and ministries in need. 
Frank spent the final seven years of his life at Freedom Village in Holland.

Frank was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elaine; daughter-in-law, Cecile Spitters; and great-granddaughter, Kinsley Markle. He is survived by his children, Diane Wichman of Battle Creek, Alan Spitters of Zeeland, and Gerald (Deborah) Spitters of Richland; grandchildren, Scott (Joanne) Spitters, Steve (Lisa) Spitters, Kristi (Dale) Kling, and Brandi Markle; great-grandchildren, Jaden Spitters, Ellie (RJ) Blackburn, Anna (Jake) Topp, Kenzie (Andrew) Meiste, Kaden Spitters, Greyson Kling, Elsie Kling, and Jace Markle.

A full military honors ceremony will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be given to Words of Hope or Youth for Christ. Arrangements are by Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Angeline Vanden Heuvel, 100

Angeline “Angie” Vanden Heuvel, 100, of Zeeland, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025. 

Angie was born Oct. 9, 1925, to the late Jacob and Winnie Geerts. She was a lifelong member of First Christian Reformed Church and served as church secretary for several years. Angie taught Sunday School, was Bible leader for Christian Fellowship, Priscilla Mission Society, Coffee Break Bible Study, and worked with Helping Hands Sewing Group.

Angie graduated from Zeeland Christian School and Zeeland High School and was secretary at Colonial Manufacturing Company. She married her husband, Dennis Vanden Heuvel, in First CRC, where both have been members all their lives. The Lord gave them 76 years together. After Dennis retired, they volunteered with World Renew. Dennis passed away in August 2022.

Angie is survived by her children, Rev. Jack and Karen Vanden Heuvel of Victoria, Minn., Dawn and Douglas Terpstra of Orland Park, Ill. and Nancy and Rev. Douglas Einfeld of Coopersville; 11 grandchildren and spouses; 22 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Althea Robbert. She was preceded in death by her only sister, Fenna Loedeman, and sister-in-law, Norraine Bennett.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Nov. 8, at First Christian Reformed Church, 15 S. Church St., Zeeland.

Memorial contributions may be made to World Renew. 

Jim De Kock, 92

Jim De Kock, 92, of Zeeland, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025.

Born on May 10, 1933, in Zeeland, Jim was a graduate of Holland Christian High School and a proud veteran of the United States Army.

Jim dedicated 12 years to used car sales before embarking on a 27-year career at Herman Miller. His heart for service extended beyond his professional life; he volunteered for many years at The Bridge Youth Ministry Center in Zeeland, mentoring and nurturing the spirit of youth. 

A devoted member of the First Christian Reformed Church of Zeeland, he served as a Cadet Leader and elder, embodying the principles of faith and community.

Jim is survived by his wife of 68 years, Marilyn De Kock; children, Dan De Kock, Russ and Shelley De Kock, and Tom and Lynda De Kock; his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as sister-in-law, Susanne Kloet.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Elizabeth De Kock; daughter-in-law, Joyce De Kock; siblings, Jason and Arlene De Kock, Lloyd and Alma De Kock; in-laws, Ron and Delores Kloet, Duane and Judy Kloet, and Keith Kloet.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 14, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Visitation will be today from 4 to 6 p.m., also at the funeral home. Burial will be in Zeeland Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be given to The Bridge Youth Ministry Center.

Donald Zwiers, 90

Donald Jay Zwiers, 90, of Zeeland, passed away in his sleep on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, under his blanket of his beloved Detroit Tigers.

Don was born on Nov. 26, 1934 in Holland, the third child of Bertha and Harry Zwiers. He graduated from Holland High School in 1953. He joined the Army after high school and was stationed in Alaska as an M41 tank gunner. 
During his service he loyally wrote to his fiancé Arloa (Hamelink) Zwiers every day of his two-year stint.

Don met his beloved wife by volunteering to drive Dutch dancers in the Tulip Time parade. They married in 1957 and remained so for 65 wonderful years.

During his life, Don raised a lovely family, setting the standard of hard work to support them. He co-owned Zwiers’ Texaco Service (later Zwiers’ Eastown Service) with his best friend and brother, Jim. Later, Don worked for Haworth. 

A lifelong Christian, Don was a proud member of Sixth Reformed Church and later Calvary Reformed Church in Holland. He served as both deacon and elder during his tenures and was known for making beautiful banners that hung in the front of both sanctuaries for all occasions.

Don was preceded in death by the love of his life, Arloa. He is survived by his children, Randy and Char Zwiers, Deb and Steve Pearson, and Bob and Kathy Zwiers; and his nine grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Monday, Nov. 10 at Calvary on 8th, 995 E. 8th St., with Rev. Dan Carter officiating. Burial was in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to one’s choice.

Calvin Branderhorst, 71

Calvin “Cal” Branderhorst, 71, of Holland, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025.

Born and raised in the Holland/Zeeland area. Cal was a quiet man with a kind and gentle heart. He carried himself with integrity and humility, guided by his faith in God and a deep sense of gratitude for life’s blessings, cherishing simple moments and meaningful connections. His calm presence and steadfast support made him a rock to his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Vivian Branderhorst; children, Valerie (Will) Mangual and Kirk Branderhorst; granddaughter, Jaedyn Branderhorst-Sauceda; and brothers, Jim (Wanda) Branderhorst, Arlan (Nancee) Branderhorst, and Chuck (Tracy) Branderhorst.

Calvin was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Gennevieve Branderhorst; and his daughter, Amanda Branderhorst.

A celebration of life gathering to celebrate Cal’s life will be held at a later date where friends and family will gather to remember his gentle spirit and the many ways he blessed those around him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hospice of Holland, 270 Hoover Blvd., Holland MI 49423, in honor of Cal’s giving spirit.

Cal and his family were deeply blessed by the compassionate care he received from the following medical personnel: Dr. Kurt Lindberg, PCP; Dr. Robert Coleman, neurologist; Corewell Health Palliative Care; Atrio Home Health; Corewell Health Home Based Primary Care; and Hospice of Holland. Their gentle support and unwavering kindness will always be remembered with gratitude.

We live in a consumer capitalist economy, designed to reward those who most effectively stimulate our desire to purchase things.

By Jeff Gill

We live in a consumer capitalist economy, designed to reward those who most effectively stimulate our desire to purchase things.

When we’re hungry, this takes the form of how advertising and product placement and manufactured convenience causes us to make choices between ready to eat goods out in the marketplace, or items prepared for consumption at home. Why buy one burger rather than another? Some of it is habit, some of it is location, and today’s acme of consumer capitalism can be found in loyalty programs, most recently translated as “in app” purchases.

Just to clarify, I’m largely a fan of capitalism and markets. That’s a longer debate for another day if you favor socialism and centralized control. But my frustration, if that’s the right word for a confused feeling of discontent, is around how poorly most of us stay awake, aware, and mindful of how consumerism works. It’s not complicated, and it’s easy to resist, but most of us let it blow us around and be nudged in directions not in our longer-term best interests.

As my doctor likes to remind me, because he’s a very good doctor, I can make purchases in advance of my hungers that are better for me than the ones I make out of convenience, from impulse, which are often both more expensive and less healthy. But it takes intentionality.

Being a Christian minister, I am thinking along these lines as I watch the Christmasification of absolutely everything, starting roughly 15 minutes after trick-or-treating ended (or mid-September if you go by TV ads). 

Now, I am not wanting to be a Scrooge here. At home we could put out one of those self-declaration signs, but ours saying “In this house, we watch Hallmark Channel films all the year round, without judgment.” You may or may not know that those fine folks have branched out into Spring-themed movies, Summer as well, along with Hanukkah Hallmark stories, etc. 

But in July, you get a month of Christmas movies, and they pop up all year round . . . and we’re here for it. Plus, other channels have launched to pick up an echo of that holiday two-hour neat package story vibe.

It’s just that pushing all the Christmas-y stuff back into November a) obscures Thanksgiving and fall and apples and roast turkey and the rest of this month’s pleasures, and b) continues to overwhelm the quiet ancient and proper understanding of the liturgical season of Christmas, which goes AFTER Dec. 25 to at least Jan. 6 and Epiphany, the 12 days of Christmas you know, and on traditional worship calendars all the way to Feb. 2 and Candlemas. The groundhog is a later addition to the cultural round.

Make Christmas LAST, I would plead, not start sooner. But that’s where consumer capitalism kicks in. Anticipation can trigger more purchasing than even the mystic power of nostalgia, and for longer. You can start marketing decor and accents and plan-ahead gifts in August, for pity’s sake, five months’ worth of sales. After? The energy isn’t there.

I know I’m both shouting into the wind, and preaching to the choir, all at the same time. But I feel sad at how ruthlessly and thoroughly we see Christmas peeled back and tossed aside on Dec. 26, when in practice we should be just getting going on it.

Some of the Christmas music stations have started carrying on into New Year’s Eve, which is something; not long ago they switched back their format Christmas evening, as the stores all started putting up Valentine’s decor.

Put up your lights as early as you want, friends, just don’t be in such a hurry to take them down. Let’s allow Christmas to last this year, even into next.

—————

Jeff Gill is a writer, storyteller, and preacher in central Ohio; his practice is putting up the tree on St. Nicholas’s Day and taking it down on Epiphany. Tell him how you make Christmas last at knapsack77@gmail.com, or follow @Knapsack77 on Threads or Bluesky.

Read: Genesis 16:1-15
“The angel of the LORD found her by a spring of water in the wilderness.” (v. 7)

By Katelyn J. Dixon

Read: Genesis 16:1-15
“The angel of the LORD found her by a spring of water in the wilderness.” (v. 7)

Today’s passage makes modern readers uncomfortable. Abram and Sarai were unable to conceive, so Sarai gave her slave Hagar to Abram instead — an abusive act that showed a lack of faith in God’s covenant promises. But when Hagar conceived, she looked down on Sarai — the future mother of the people of Israel. Sarai abused Hagar, so Hagar fled into the desert. What are we to do with this complex, messy story?

The presence of such passages in the Bible can serve as a gracious reminder that God is willing to work in our broken and messy places, making wrong things right. Seeing her distress, God sent an angel to Hagar as a visible sign of redemption. Remarkably, Hagar — an Egyptian slave and outcast — is the first person in the Bible to name God: “You are a God of seeing” (v. 13). It is the knowledge that she was seen by God that gave Hagar the courage to return and submit to her mistress Sarai.

What does the presence of God’s angel with Hagar tell us about the heart of God? It shows us that God cares deeply for those who suffer, and that no act of injustice goes unseen by him. The angel’s message also reveals the lavish compassion and redemption God extends to all people — not only the chosen people of Israel. Knowing we are seen and loved by the God of justice and mercy gives us the courage to persevere in suffering.

As you pray, ask God to help you see the one who sees you.

—————

Katelyn J. Dixon is a writer and photographer from Auburn, Wash. When she’s not creating, she enjoys exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her husband Drew and partnering with him in life and ministry.

Paul Calvin Brouwer, 81, of Zeeland, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025.

Paul Brouwer, 81

Paul Calvin Brouwer, 81, of Zeeland, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025.

Paul was born Dec. 14, 1943, in Drenthe to Clarence and Juella (Van Dam) Brouwer. He graduated from Zeeland High School in 1962. Paul worked for many years at Herman Miller and after retiring he worked part-time at Family Fare in Zeeland. 

On May 7, 1971, Paul married Nellie Helder and they raised their daughter and son in Zeeland. Paul and Nellie were members of Covenant Presbyterian Church for several years. Nellie preceded Paul in death in 2022.

He is survived by his daughter, Dawn and Matt Harsevoort; son, Dan Brouwer; grandchildren, Jarod Harsevoort, Jordyn and Kaden Shook, and Jaylyn Harsevoort; in-laws, Maurice and Shirley Brouwer, Lynn and Betty Brouwer, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was also preceded in death by Mary Brouwer, Art and Marcia Broekhuis, and Gavin Broekhuis.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Nov. 7 at Covenant Presbyterian Church (PCA), 1015 E. 32nd St., Holland. Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Interment will be in West Drenthe Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Gateway Mission.

LaVerne Padding, 89

LaVerne Padding, 89, of Zeeland, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025.

Vern was born Sept. 27, 1936, to John and Ruth (Fox) Padding, in Zeeland. He graduated from Zeeland High School in 1955. 

Vern started working at Big Dutchman until he entered the U.S. Army and served his country in Germany from 1955-1957. When he returned, Vern started working at the U.S. Postal Service and also drove a bus for Zeeland Schools. After retiring, Vern worked part-time for Holland Special Delivery. 

Vern was preceded by his wife, Virginia (Wedeven) Padding, in 1963, and his wife of 46 years, Elaine (Barense) Padding, in 2011. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Floyd Padding, Orrin Padding, and Iola Padding; and in-laws, Dorothy Padding, Elaine Padding, Roger Barense, Cheryl and Harold Kaptein, Karen and Phil Hoezee, and Rich Elling.

Vern is survived by his children, Jeff and Sheri Padding, Vicki and Bob Elzinga, Michelle Perdok, and Julie and Randy Tallman; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; in-laws: Nancy Barense and Mary Elling; and many extended family members. 

A family graveside service with military honors was held in Zeeland Cemetery. A visitation was held Tuesday, Nov. 4, at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland.

Shirley Weener, 85

Shirley Weener, 85, of Jenison, went home to be with her heavenly Father Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.

Shirley graduated from Holland High School, Butterworth School of Nursing and worked at Holland Hospital. Shirley and Sherwin are members of Hager Park Church. Shirley enjoyed spending time and caring for her grandchildren, sewing, quilting and reading.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, the Rev. Sherwin Weener; daughters, Marty and John LaBarge, and Sarah Hart; grandchildren, Leah and Charlie Gies, Abigail LaBarge, Taylor LaBarge, Erin and Justin Palmer, Isaac Brickey, Justin and Rachel Jewell, Hannah Jewell, and Alex and Makenna Jewell; six great-grandchildren; brother, Leon and Sally Prins; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Dennis and Barbara Weener, Randy and Sally Weener, and Dona and Jerry Schmidt.

Shirley was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Gary Hart, in 2024.

Visitation will be Sunday, Nov. 9 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland and Monday, Nov. 10 from noon to 12:45 p.m., with the funeral service to follow at 1 p.m., at Hager Park Church, 2635 Bauer Rd., Jenison. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. 

Memorial contributions may be given to the Sherwin and Shirley Weener Scholarship at Hope College.

Rose Jeurink, 70

Rose Ellen Jeurink, 70, of Holland, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2025.

Rose was born on Nov. 6, 1954, in Zeeland. She was preceded in death by her father, Lee Wiersema; her mother, Eileen Hicks; and her sister, Lori Adams.

Rose was a devoted wife, having married Arlyn Jeurink on Nov. 16, 1991. Her family was of utmost importance to her. She is survived by her sons, Brian (Kris) Lowe, Jeff (Heather) Lowe, and Michael Haverdink; daughter, Carrie (Steve) Turrell; sister, Lisa Kouchnerkavich; stepsons, Mathew Jeurink and Nathan Jeurink; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Rose had a deep passion for Detroit Tigers baseball and was a collector of knick-knacks. Her strong Christian faith was a guiding force in her life. She was quick to make an impact on the lives of those around her, leaving a lasting legacy of kindness and compassion.

A celebration of life service will be held tonight from 5 to 9 p.m. at Lighthouse Christian Ministries, 13858 Lincoln St., Grand Haven.

Andrew Krommendyk, 88

Andrew Krommendyk, 88, of Oakland, died Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, at his home.

Andy was preceded in death by his sons, Richard and Michael; a daughter, Anita; and a granddaughter, Angelica Krommendyk.

He was a member of Oakland Christian Reformed Church, was involved in Fellowship Bible Study and as a Cadet counselor. He worked for Yeakey-Scripps for 27 years and retired from Johnson Carpets. Andy was a volunteer firefighter for Overisel Township for several years. In retirement he volunteered for Bibles For Mexico-Legacy Thrift.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joyce; children, Bryan and Sue Krommendyk, Ron and Kristina Krommendyk and Carolyn and Don Dekker; grandchildren, Whitney and Jake Settlemyre, Haley Krommendyk, Michael Krommendyk, Riley and Janelle Krommendyk, Shayne and Natalie Krommendyk, Jordan Krommendyk, Travis Krommendyk, Joshua and Melissa Dekker, Brandon and Andi Dekker, Andrew and Jadyn Dekker, Emma Boerman, and Dylan Boerman; eight great-grandchildren; in-laws in the Netherlands, Mary Willemsen, Carla Pijpstra, Ali Broekmate, Emmy Broekmate and Jeaniene Broekmate.

The funeral service was held Tuesday, Nov. 4, at Oakland Christian Reformed Church, 4452 38th St., Hamilton. Interment was in Bentheim Cemetery. Visitation was Monday, Nov. 3, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Memorial contributions may be given to Harbor House Ministries or Oakland Christian Reformed Church.

Kathleen DeWeerd, 85

Kathleen DeWeerd, 85, of Overisel, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025 at Corewell Health Zeeland Hospital.

Kathleen was a member of Overisel Reformed Church and former member of Overisel Christian Reformed Church. She was active in her church and regularly volunteered at Love, Inc. and several other charities. 

Kathleen was a 1958 graduate of Unity Christian High School. Her favorite pastimes were working puzzles, sewing and crafting. She had a servant’s heart and cared deeply for the needs of others.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Alena Steenwyk; and brother and sister-in-law, Clarence and Ethel Steenwyk.

Kathleen is survived by her husband of 64 years, Henry C. DeWeerd; children, Linda (Dan) VanKley, Julie Taylor and Dennis (Patti) DeWeerd; grandchildren, Rin (Salem) VanKley, Jon VanKley, Anna VanKley, Ben (Vanessa) Taylor, Kaylee Taylor, Noah Taylor, Ryan DeWeerd and Sophia DeWeerd; great-grandchildren, Elaina Taylor, Titus Taylor, Siena Taylor, Levi Taylor and Maria Taylor; siblings, Henry (Judi) Steenwyk and James (Nancy) Steenwyk.

Funeral services were held Monday, Nov. 3, at Overisel Reformed Church Ministry Center (the former Overisel Christian Reformed Church), 4724 142nd Ave., Holland, with Rev. Michael Pitsenberger officiating. Burial was in Zutphen Cemetery. Visitation was Sunday, Nov. 2 at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Love, Inc.

Dorothea Feenstra, 98

Dorothea Irene Feenstra, 98, of Zeeland, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025.

Dorothy was born to John and Irene Westerby on Aug. 10, 1925, the second youngest of eight children. She grew up on a farm near Ortonville and walked to school where she enjoyed sports, played the female lead in the senior play, and won the school spelling bee. 

After high school, she worked briefly as a secretary and then moved to Grand Rapids to attend beauty school. After graduating, she worked for an older sister, Bernice Westrate, who owned a salon in Grandville. Later, she met and married a handsome serviceman, Evert Feenstra, who had returned from serving in World War II. 

Evert built their home in Hudsonville, and he designed it with a side entrance to a room that could be converted to a beauty shop. Son Gary and later younger sister Gail joined the family. Gary was a year and half old and Gail still in the womb when Evert died suddenly of cardiac arrest. At 27, Dorothy showed strength and fortitude and raised her children well, by demonstrating faith in her Lord, and surrounded by hers and Evert’s family, as well as close friends, community, and church.

Hudsonville Baptist Church activities were important to Dorothy; she taught Sunday School and, as SS secretary, was responsible for printing the weekly church bulletin. She also worked with AWANA, and sang soprano in the church choir and in a ladies’ trio.

Dorothy operated “Dot’s Beauty Shop” in her home after her children entered school, and she had many loyal customers for over 60 years. After retirement, she sold her home in Hudsonville and moved to Maple Lake Village Condominiums in Zeeland, and she began attending Immanuel Church of Holland, where for years she served on the greeting team as well as being active in adult choir, women’s ministry, and her ABF class.

Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, Evert; parents, siblings, and son-in-law, Randy Gowman. She is survived by her children, Gary (Diane) Feenstra and Gail Gowman; grandchildren, Heidi (Damon) Remigailo, David (Anne) Gowman, Joel (Melody) Gowman, Katie (Michael) Barnes, Todd (Julianne) Feenstra, and Kelsi (Sean) Donovan; and 17 great-grandchildren. 

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, at Immanuel Church of Holland, 325 104th Ave., Holland. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland, and also at Immanuel Church one hour before the service on Nov. 8. Burial will be in Georgetown Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in Dorothy’s memory can be made to Immanuel Church of Holland Missions Fund, to Maranatha Bible and Missionary Conference Building Fund, or to Hospice of Holland.

Christopher Casko, 50

Christopher Paul Casko, 50, of Holland, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025. 

Born on June 26, 1975, in Portage, Ind., Chris was an honor roll student and a proud graduate of Portage High School.

Chris moved to Holland in the late ‘90s and began working at Tiara Yachts as a CNC programmer. In addition to his work over 26 years, he also enjoyed playing fantasy football with his work family. An avid sports fan, he passionately supported the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs.

Above all, Chris was a loving husband to his wife of 26 years, Stacy Casko, and a devoted father to his children, Austin Casko and Alissa Casko. 

Chris is survived by his wife, Stacy; children, Austin and Alissa; stepfather, Dwight Ard Sr.; siblings, Dwight and Tiffany Ard, Ericka Ard, April and Brian Dilling, and David and Sandy Ard.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Alice Ard; grandmother, Esther Casko; and parents-in-law, Sharon and Steve Adams.

Visitation was Sunday, Nov. 

2 at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Burial with family and friends was at North Holland Cemetery Monday, Nov. 3. 

Memorial contributions may be given to support Chris’ wife and children at giveinkind.com/inkinds/X4P6L6Q.

I once had a dream that several friends and I were walking through the woods. We came to a clearing and there, in the middle of that clearing, was an old foundation.  

By Jerry D. Ousley

I once had a dream that several friends and I were walking through the woods. We came to a clearing and there, in the middle of that clearing, was an old foundation.  

It wasn’t very large, probably about the size of a shed, and the building had rotted down over the years, leaving only the foundation. In my dream, I remember stepping over into the foundation to explore what might be there.  

As I stepped in, I realized that I had just walked right into the middle of a rattlesnake pit. I could hear their rattles going a thousand miles per hour and I could tell that there were a lot of them.  

As I looked around, I began to spot snake after snake, and I realized how fortunate I was that I had worn thick, heavy boots and long pants. But right before I woke up, I looked down and instead of boots and heavy jeans I was barefoot and in a pair of jogging shorts!  Bummer!  I woke up before I was bitten, and realized it was just a nightmarish dream, thank God!

In 1 Corinthians 3:9-16, Paul writes: “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building. According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.  Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.”  

The apostle was telling us that allegorically, all of us who have been born into God’s kingdom are all a building-in-progress. Each structure is different because each of us has our own place in the plan of God and His kingdom. What Paul means, when he wrote that he had laid the foundation, as a wise master builder, he was saying that his task was to win souls to Christ, and that experience was the foundation.  

Any builder knows that before they can build, there must be a sturdy, firm foundation. That is always the starting place. All of us, as Christians, must first have the foundation of salvation in Jesus.

From there, others are constantly building upon our foundation, because our building is never completely finished until our appointed day to leave this world to be with Jesus. The first list of items listed is by no means inclusive of all, but speaks of things of the world – temporary things that have no meaning in our life with Christ. Things of gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw and stubble; these things all are things of stuff that can easily take our attention away from our foundation, the truth that will set us free. Our foundation in Christ needs to have things of faith built upon it. 

So many congregations today are looking for the wrong thing. They look for what excites, fills us with emotion, or dazzles our eyes. I saw a video of a pastor who was receiving the offering, and was telling people to give a gift of faith. He was asking them to empty their bank accounts so that God could refill them with His blessings.  

Now, I know there are instances when God instructed someone to do this. But not to give thousands, and thousands of dollars to a pastor so he can have luxury automobiles, mansions, vacation homes, jets and such. 

The widow was asked to make a cake for Elisha, not so he could eat steak and potatoes while she and her son starved to death, but because Elisha himself was in dire need of food. In the story Jesus told of the widow who gave the last she had, which was only a mite, the smallest amount of money that was recognized, sort of like a penny now-a-day. She did indeed give all she had, not because a preacher told her to, but only because she was inspired by God. 

In both these instances, the individuals involved built on good foundations and were blessed for their obedience.

Our foundation should only have those things that bring glory to God constructed on them, because only those things will stand in the end. Paul did say that as long as the foundation was firm that the individual would be saved, but their works would not stand. Our temporary belongings can all be replaced. In Heaven there is no need of them. 

What we are really building is a temple – a structure in which sacrificial worship of God takes place. That’s why Paul also wrote in Romans 12:1 that we present ourselves to God as a living sacrifice; a sacrifice that fills our temple with worship to the Almighty God. Then we have built something lasting on our foundation who is Jesus Christ!  

As in my dream, we don’t want our building rotted to the ground and our foundation filled with rattlesnakes, standing in the middle of it barefoot wearing running shorts.

—————

Jerry D. Ousley is the author of “Soul Challenge”, “Soul Journey”, “Ordeal”, “The Spirit Bread Daily Devotional” and his first novel “The Shoe Tree.” 

Imagine if one were to speak the gospel to the deceased, to preach in cemeteries and mausoleums. 

By Michael Andres

Read: Ephesians 2:4-10
“For by grace you have been saved . . . it is the gift of God.” (v. 8)

Imagine if one were to speak the gospel to the deceased, to preach in cemeteries and mausoleums. 

Is that not what Christians are asked to do: preach to the spiritually dead? Because of his love and mercy, God “even when we were dead . . . made us alive together with Christ.” In a word, we need grace.

The apostle Paul rings the note of “grace” three times in Ephesians 2: “by grace you have been saved,” God shows the “immeasurable riches of his grace,” and “for by grace you have been saved.” 

The Reformers called this sola gratia, by “grace alone” are we saved. Spiritual life is God’s extravagant, undeserved favor to the dead. We cannot save ourselves; humans cannot create life where there is death. Only God can. He “raised us up” out of the grave.

Our spiritual deadness makes necessary a gracious, God-centered rescue. No matter how self-absorbed, guilty, or lifeless we are, new birth is possible through the omnipotent, redemptive efforts of the Spirit of God. 

Like the prophet Ezekiel, we stand before a valley of dry bones, waiting for God to make them alive (Ezekiel 37) and calling out like Jesus to Lazarus that the dead may rise (John 11). Praise God who makes sinners alive with Christ and breathes new life into the spiritually dead!

As you pray, confess your brokenness to God and thank God for the gift of renewing grace.

—————

Michael Andres is a professor of religion at Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa.