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Bruce Alan Harkema, 77, passed away Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bruce Harkema, 77

Bruce Alan Harkema, 77, passed away Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bruce was born to Justin and Beverly Harkema in Muskegon on June 20, 1949. When he was 6 years old, his family relocated to Holland, where he would build the life and legacy that meant so much to him.

Bruce graduated from Holland Christian High School and attended Calvin University before ultimately following the family plumbing trade. Plumbing was more than a profession for Bruce — it was a family tradition and a craft he took great pride in. He made his professional home at Nick Unema Plumbing and Heating, where he devoted more than 40 years doing what he loved with people he loved.

Bruce’s faith was the foundation of his life. He loved the Lord and sought to honor Him through a life of humble service — to his family, his church, his work, and his community. Service was simply part of who Bruce was. He was the kind of man who showed his love through his presence, his willingness to help, and his steady commitment to others. He was a family man through and through, a quiet and humble leader whose life spoke through the way he served.=

Bruce found joy in the simple and lasting things in life. He loved fishing, woodworking, mission trips, watching sports, and spending time outdoors with family and friends. He especially loved water — whether water skiing at the cottage, the Florida beaches, or the lakes of the U.P. He loved watching his children and grandchildren do what they loved and took great pride in cheering them on.

Bruce was preceded in death by his mother, Beverly; father, Justin; brother, Tom; sister, Patricia; and brother-in-law, Dick Valk.

Bruce is survived by his wife of 56 years, Susan; daughters, Erin (Gary) Howe, Jill (Ryan) Tanis, and Laura (Matt) Meiste; grandchildren, Abe (Kate) Howe, Evan (Jamie) Howe, Brady (Morgan) Howe, Trygve, Graham, Drew and Tanis, Cole, Addi and Brook Meiste; and great-grandchildren, Kieran and Josie Howe; brother- and sisters-in-law, Judy Valk-Kraker and Steve Kraker, Cal and Margo Mulder, and Lucy Harkema; stepmother, Mary Harkema; stepsiblings Benjamin, Joseph and Trish Harkema; and many fond cousins, nieces and nephews.

On behalf of his family, a special thanks to Meijer Heart Center and the Transplant Team; Corewell Health Oncology and Lemmen-Holton; and all the caregivers, nurses, physicians and support staff who cared for him with such compassion and dedication. The family is forever grateful for the gift of your care.

The funeral service to honor the life of Bruce will be held Friday, Sept. 4 at 11 a.m. at Faith Christian Reformed Church, 85 W. 26th St., Holland. Interment will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. today at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland.

Memorial contributions may be given to Gift of Life and Holland Christian Schools.

Ronald Scholten, 89

Ronald Peter Scholten, 89, of Holland, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026.

Ron was born and raised in West Michigan. He led a life characterized by love, faith, and dedication. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and enjoyed a fulfilling career at Shaklee for six decades. Having initially honed his skills as a carpenter, woodworking remained a lifelong passion.

Ron enjoyed playing racquetball, pickleball, and billiards, embracing opportunities to connect with friends and family through friendly competition. His strong faith in Jesus was a cornerstone of his life, and he was always ready to share the gospel with those he encountered. 

Ron is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Vera Scholten; children, Thomas and Nella Scholten, Timothy and Lori Scholten, Victoria and Rick Walters, David and Lisa Scholten, and Daniel and Suzanne Scholten; 14 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; siblings, Joanne and Mitch De Hoog, Carole Scholten, Jean DeYoung, Mark and Linda Scholten, and Paul and Kim Scholten; in-laws, Ruth and Ron Telman, Lee and Jean Scholma, Bernard and Nellie Scholma, and Calvin and Ellie Scholma; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his siblings, Jerry Scholten, Russ Scholten and Faith Scholten; and in-laws, Rich DeYoung and Louise Scholten.

A memorial service will be Friday, Sept. 4 at 12 noon at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta.

Harold Overweg, 91

Harold “Bob” Overweg, age 91 of Zeeland passed away Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Joan; his son, Michael and Amy Overweg; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Noah and Kathyrn Overweg, Nathan Overweg and his fiancé Courtney Kayser, Janelle Piffer and her fiancé Alex Jansen (Max and Theo), 
and Jeremy Piffer; brother, Kenneth Overweg; sisters-in-law, Lenora Bell and Sally Van Ess; and former son-in-law, Jon and Deborah Piffer.

Bob was preceded in death by his daughter, Pamela Piffer.

Bob and Joan were charter members of Community Reformed Church. He worked at Herman Miller for 42 years, retiring in 1995. Bob and Joan enjoyed traveling and especially spending winters in Florida.

Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 8 p.m. at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. The funeral service to honor Bob will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 at Community Reformed Church, 10376 Felch St., Zeeland. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. 

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Mary Ebels, 86

Mary Jane Ebels, 86, of Holland, passed away Friday, Aug. 28, 2026, at Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital.

Mary was born and raised in Grand Rapids and graduated from Grand Rapids Christian High School. She worked at Russ' Restaurant for many years as a car hop and waitress. She was a Standing Stone member of Ridge Point Community Church.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Glenn Ebels, in 2003; and by her in-laws, Annabelle (Floyd) Vanden Belt, Jason (Esther) Ebels, Pauline (Claude) Rouwhorst, Bernie (Jean) Ebels, Don (Nancy) Ebels, and Maxine (Jun) Hop.

Mary is survived by her children, Lori (Gregg) Insley of Zeeland, Mark (Laurie) Ebels of Zeeland, Kathy (Mark) Matthews of Florida and Steve (Julaine) Ebels of Zeeland; grandchildren, Annie Insley, Kami Insley, Kate (Jake) Van Keulen, Brooke (Dan) Rausch, Grace Ebels, Ben (Brittany) Hulst, Tyler (Hannah) Hulst, Brandon (Brenna) Hulst, Ross (Brynne) Ebels and Britta (Andrew) Bouwman; 16 great-grandchildren; siblings, Clare (Mary) Tigchelaar, Carol (Chuck) Fridsma, Don (Jan) Tigchelaar and Deb (Darrell) Gritter; and brother-in-law, Bob (Marilyn) Ebels.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland, with Rev. Bob Nienhuis officiating. Burial was in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Donate Life America, and Ahadia Academy.

Marilyn Ensing, 89

Marilyn Ensing, 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026.

Marilyn was stay-at-home wife and mother. She was a loving and kind grandma and great-grandma. She was preceded in death by a grandchild, Matthew Avis.

Marilyn is survived by her husband of 70 years, Donald Ensing; children, Duane Ensing (Tammie Buehler), Diane and Ken Russell, and Dale Ensing; grandchildren, Amber Arriaga and Jenna Stillson; great-grandchildren, Viviana Arriaga and Gilberto Arriaga; and sister-in-law, Mary and Virgil Wilson.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, Sept. 1 at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Burial was in West Drenthe Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Marilyn's honor may be given to Community Reformed Church, Food Pack at communityreformed.org/giving or by mail to the church at 10376 Felch St., Zeeland, MI 49464.

Keith Wolters, 69

Keith Alan Wolters, 69, of Zeeland, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026. 

Keith was a man of deep faith, a servant heart, and seemingly endless ideas and projects. He loved the Lord and lived his faith through the way he worked, served, gave, and cared for others. An electrician by trade and part owner of his family business, Keith was a natural builder and problem solver who gave countless hours of his time and talents to help build Lighthouse Community Church and serving at Grace Adventures.

Those who knew Keith well knew there was always something happening in the barn, usually with his faithful dog, Gibbs, close by. A man of many talents, he could be found restoring cars, making maple syrup, or working through whatever new idea had captured his attention. The barn was his place to create, fix, figure things out, and contemplate the many unfinished projects still waiting for him. He also found great joy in being outdoors, whether exploring the sand dunes or riding the trails in his side-by-side. 

Above all, Keith loved his family. He deeply loved his children and grandchildren, and one of his greatest hopes was that they would know and follow the Lord. His legacy lives in far more than the things he built with his hands; it lives in the family he loved, the faith he shared, the people he served, and the lives he helped shape.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Ann (Smith) Wolters.

Keith is survived by his wife, Judy (Brewer) Wolters; daughters, Kathlyn (Jeff) Born, Kylene (Ross) Smith, and Stefan (Josh) Hull; step-sons: Chad (Julie) Meyer, Shaun (Stephanie) Meyer, and Chris (Ratchanan) Meyer; 15 grandchildren; his siblings, and many extended family members and friends.

A funeral service was held Saturday, Aug. 29 at Lighthouse Community Church, 7624 Lake Michigan Dr., Allendale, with Pastor Steve Demers officiating. Burial was in Olive Township Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland or Lighthouse Community Church.

Joan Voorhorst, 91

Joan Elizabeth Voorhorst, 91, of Hamilton, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026.

Joan was a dedicated wife and mother, and she adored her grandchildren as well as great and great-great grandchildren. She enjoyed baking and knitting when she had the time. Joan's faith was a central part of her life and she was a dedicated children's Sunday School teacher at Overisel Reformed Church for 28 years.

Joan is survived by her children, Jeff and Nancy Voorhorst, LuAnn and Gene Weener, and Rick and Cindy Voorhorst; 12 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and sister, Alice and Glen Vander Kolk. She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Allen Voorhorst, in 2021.

A funeral service was held Saturday, Aug. 29 at Overisel Reformed Church, 4706 142nd Ave., Holland. Interment was in Overisel Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be given to Overisel Reformed Church Children's Sunday School. 

Nancy Geneva, 69

Nancy A. Geneva, 69, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, in Zeeland. 

Nancy was born to Herbert and Ruth (Brown) Beyer on Feb. 15, 1957, in Grand Rapids. She was described as someone who was kind and generous, loved working on crossword puzzles, playing games, shopping, watching “Dark Shadows,” was a wine connoisseur and above all loved spending time with family.

Nancy is survived by her cousins, Debra (Greg) Kroeze, Kevin (Sandi) Beyer, Tim (Karen) Beyer, Chip Beyer, Darlene (Dave) Hunter and Judy (Devon) Owen; best friend, Jolinda (Mike) VanHaften and her special kitty, Lilly. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Ruth Beyer; and brother, Jon Beyer. 

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Arrangements are through The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores.

For most of my life, I’ve lived in the country outside a small town. In my growing-up years, that small hometown was outside of Kansas City, which we simply referred to as “the city,” but my adult hometown is even smaller than that one. You can drive straight through and barely know you were here.

By Traci Rhoades

For most of my life, I’ve lived in the country outside a small town. In my growing-up years, that small hometown was outside of Kansas City, which we simply referred to as “the city,” but my adult hometown is even smaller than that one. You can drive straight through and barely know you were here.

Hopkins, Michigan. According to a website for kids, John Hoffmaster settled in our town in 1854. I work our local elections, and know there are still people in the area with that last name. Twenty years later, a railroad depot opened. There’s a village and a township. The village population was 615 according to the 2020 census (up 10 people from the 2010 census). 

I don’t live in the village, but rather in Hopkins Township, which adds another 2,750 people to the population count. Still, that’s a third the size of the small town where I spent my childhood.

Shortly after Hoffmaster settled in the area, the town got its first post office, which stayed open until 1904. In 1906, a new post office opened, changing the name from Hopkins Station to just Hopkins.

Some little towns are known as one-stoplight towns. We have them beat. We don’t have a  single stoplight. Not even a stop sign on Main Street, which turns into 128th Avenue on either side of town.

The village of Hopkins has four churches, two restaurants, one bank, a library, a gas station, a coffee shop, an ice cream shop (with limited hours) and township hall. Oh, and we do still have a post office. 

For those who stop, Russo’s Pizzeria Bar and Grille (with great patio seating) or CDs Quik Mart (wonderful pizza and subs) are probably the most popular destinations.

As with so many small towns, the heart of Hopkins is the local school. We had our first high school football game last Thursday, a nailbiter against the Fruitport Trojans, and our Vikings came out on top. Hopkins Athletic Department’s Facebook page offered play-by-play updates throughout the night: “PICK 6 BY SENIOR JACKSON I. AND THE VIKINGS HAVE THE LEAD 34-28 WITH UNDER A MINUTE TO PLAY!”

I already told you I didn’t grow up here, and neither did my husband. Our daughter did, attending public school until her freshman year, when she asked to be homeschooled. She still performed on Hopkins’ Cafetorium stage, though, sharing her musical theater talent with the community alongside several of her closest friends. She graduated this last spring, and I know I’ll miss seeing her on that stage.

For some, it might seem as if a place like Hopkins is a bump in the road, just a place to pass through on your way from here to there. Let me tell you what I see on the roads that lead me home.

We get some beautiful sunrises and sunsets. There’s enough rolling hills around us to get some great views, and I highly recommend a fall drive out here in a month or two. Stop and get coffee and a muffin at Piki’s. Tell them I sent you.

There are only a handful of houses on the dirt roads surrounding our town. Yes, your car might need a car wash, or remain perpetually dirty, but you’re sure to get a friendly wave from at least a few people when they drive by you. Many a night my husband and I settle in on our back porch, no sounds but from birds and insects, and the busyness of the world feels miles away. It is miles away.

As you can imagine, the local churches in Hopkins are small. In a 2017 interview with Krista Tippett for “On Being,” the late Eugene Peterson was asked what advice he had to offer on picking a church.

Mr. Peterson: When I was a pastor of a congregation, people would leave and say, “How do I pick a church?” My usual answer was go to the closest church where you live, and the smallest. And if after six months it’s just not working, go to the next smallest.

Ms. Tippett: OK, so what is it about small rather than big?

Mr. Peterson: Because you have to deal with people as they are. And you’ve got to learn how to love them when they’re not loveable.

The same is true about a small town. It’s pretty hard to hide here, and a lot of families have been here for generations, so even harder. There’s a lot of “learning how to love one another,” and in doing so, something good develops in us too.

These days, when I go to “the city,” it’s Grand Rapids or Kalamazoo. I also like to go to the lakeshore towns as often as I can. But Hopkins is home – no stoplight and no traffic jams (unless you count the lineup of cars after the Friday night high school football game). 

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Traci Rhoades is a faith writer who advocates for an integrated life rooted in Christ. Her family of three loves living near the beach towns of Lake Michigan.

Humility is an attribute that a person cannot brag about having — as soon as they brag about it, they’re no longer being humble. The opening two verses of Romans 12 refer to our relationship with God. We are called to “present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God” (v. 1). In verse 2, we are taught that we must avoid conforming to this world so that we can be transformed and discern God’s will.

By Steve Petroelje

Read: Romans 12
“I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think.” (v. 3)

Humility is an attribute that a person cannot brag about having — as soon as they brag about it, they’re no longer being humble. The opening two verses of Romans 12 refer to our relationship with God. We are called to “present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God” (v. 1). In verse 2, we are taught that we must avoid conforming to this world so that we can be transformed and discern God’s will.

Now, in verse 3, we begin to learn how those who are transformed live in a Christlike manner toward others. Our transformation, hope, salvation, and giftedness are not through our own works or achievements, but solely the grace of God. In fact, verse 3 specifically tells us that our pursuit of humility is a response to grace and the measure of faith that God has assigned.

Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” It’s so easy to highlight our accomplishments in conversation and through social media. At times, we elevate ourselves through the nonverbal ways we look at or judge others. Sometimes we mistakenly think that our service, stewardship, acts of kindness, and spiritual disciplines make us better than others. 

Transformed followers of Jesus pursue humility and sober judgment instead of pride. Would others describe you as a humble person? 

As you pray, ask God to help you live with humility and guard against pride.

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Steve Petroelje is a specialized transition pastor who serves vacant churches and helps them assess health, pursue missional effectiveness, and conduct a pastoral search process. He is the past-president of the Words of Hope Board of Directors.

In the early 1900s, gun ownership for most families might have included a .22 rifle, a double barrel shotgun, a .30-30 lever action rifle, and a pistol. Many only had one or two of these. A pistol was often the last firearm on the list. 

By Gary Miller

In the early 1900s, gun ownership for most families might have included a .22 rifle, a double barrel shotgun, a .30-30 lever action rifle, and a pistol. Many only had one or two of these. A pistol was often the last firearm on the list. 

A farmer looked at these guns not as something to collect or trade, but as tools. That same farmer would look at the collection that many individuals have today, and ask “What’s all them for?” 

He believed that a gun had a purpose and if the purpose was met with one firearm, you really didn’t need another one. He also kept his gun a long time. He became comfortable with how it handled and how it shot and therefore felt no reason to trade it for a different one, no matter how much better the newer model was. 

Yes, that is different from today. Many of us think we need a gun for every type of hunt and for every situation in life. And then we need one to defend the house and the country – just in case. And all of that is fine. 

But when it comes down to it, the gun, no matter how it is used, still has one purpose - to fire a projectile from a barrel. That gun can be worth a lot of money or a just few dollars, but it is still made to fire a bullet or shell. This purpose doesn’t change. It never has and it never will.  

What changes, however, is the object of its purpose. In war, the object is the enemy. In hunting, the object is game. In that same hunting scenario, the object might be a duck, a deer, a grouse or a gobbler. But the purpose of the gun remains. Only the object changes. 

When I think about the purpose God has given His followers, I think we can say the same thing. Our purpose doesn’t change. Only its object does. I believe the purpose for each believer is the same: to love and serve God and, to love and serve the people He puts in front of us. 

What’s neat about this is that we never have to ask God what purpose He has for us. He has already told us. What changes over our lifetime, and even from one day to another, is the object of that purpose. 

For me, the object was once a church where I was the pastor. Today it’s a group of diverse men. But even those descriptions are too broad. One day the object of my purpose might be hundreds of people I’m speaking to. The next day it might be one person who needs a listening ear and a little encouragement. The size of the opportunity may change. The purpose doesn’t. 

And there are plenty of other examples as well. These changes occur as we experience different things in our lives. Death, divorce, disease, defeat, and disappointment can all change the people and opportunities that are placed in front of us. And all of this does a few things. 

First, it settles the question of what my purpose is. Secondly, it takes away the pressure of trying to figure out some great calling for this particular period of my life. Instead, I can simply ask: Who has God put in front of me today? And was I a good steward of that opportunity? 

But it also does a third thing. It shows us that no matter how bad we’ve been, no matter how difficult and disappointing our past, as long as we are here on earth, God has people for our purpose. Sin, suffering and setbacks may redirect the object of our purpose, but they can never eliminate it. 

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

Kenneth Dell (Ken) Boeve, 95, of Holland, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, Aug. 23, 2026.

Kenneth Boeve, 95

Kenneth Dell (Ken) Boeve, 95, of Holland, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, Aug. 23, 2026.

Ken was born on Nov. 15, 1930, in Holland to Esther and Richard Boeve. A lifelong resident in Holland, he was a quiet, hardworking, loving man that enjoyed his family and life, including biking, gardening, painting, traveling, and watching sports, especially the Detroit Tigers and college basketball.

Ken married his first love, Lois Kolean, on June 16, 1950. He was a faithful, caring husband for 53 years until Lois passed away in 2003. Together they had five children: Richard (Gundi) Boeve, Thomas (Mary) Boeve, Timothy (Diane) Boeve, Jane (Eric) Roessing, and Kevin (Elizabeth) Boeve; nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Then at age 82 he married his second love, Marge Pugh, and they enjoyed 11 years of life together until Marge passed away in 2025. This added five stepchildren to his life, Victor (Lonna) Pugh, Randall (Gail) Pugh, Mical (Jennifer) Pugh, Christy (Dale) TenElshof, and Amy (Tom) Mulder, and numerous more step-grandchildren and step great-grandchildren.

Ken worked numerous jobs throughout his life, but his favorite was being head custodian at Jefferson Elementary School for more than 17 years. He loved the students, teachers, and principal and kept the school building very clean and orderly. He received high honor by the staff at the time of his retirement for his excellence in workmanship and character.

Ken was a longtime member at Maplewood Reformed Church and loved serving his Lord as a deacon many times. In recent years he had transferred his membership to Graafschap Christian Reformed Church.

He is survived by his brother Ronald (Sunny) Boeve; sisters Marilyn (Carroll) Seats and Sandra Lester; sisters-in-law Eleanor Boeve, Yvonne Dryer, Irene Gunnink, and Alma Worley; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will take place at Monday, Aug. 31 at 11 a.m. at Graafschap Christian Reformed Church, 5973 Church St., Holland, with an hour of visitation held prior to the service.

Chester Haveman, 83

Chester “Chet” Haveman, 83, of Hudsonville, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 23, 2026.

Chet was born Oct. 10, 1942, in Blendon Township, to Arnold and Hattie (Holstege) Haveman. Chet graduated from Unity Christian High School and served his country in the U.S. Army. After his military service, Chet worked in concrete construction at Ted Miedema Concrete for 50 years until he retired. 

On June 19, 1969, Chet married Sharon Prince. Chet and Sharon raised their children in Hudsonville, and Chet was a lifelong member of Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church.

Chet is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sharon; their children, Janna and Joel Huisken of Grandville, and Michael and Heidi Haveman of Jenison; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Trevor and Kaitlin Huisken (Elise), Mitchell and Leah Huisken (expecting in February), Kelly Huisken, Emily Huisken, Ethan and Olivia Haveman (Edison), and Darcie and Carson Lehmann; siblings, Will and Sue Haveman, Vern and Mary Haveman, and Ruth and Dale Kraker; in-laws, Douglas and Mary Jane Prince; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Haveman.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, Aug. 28 at 11 a.m. at Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church, 5101 Beechtree Ave., Hudsonville. Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 8 p.m., also at Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church. Private interment will be in Blendon Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Protestant Reformed Special Education.

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

Michael Vander Wilk, 78

Michael Vander Wilk, 78, of Holland, formerly of Zeeland, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026.

Mike was born in Zeeland on Jan. 30, 1948, to John and Elsie (Blauwkamp) Vander Wilk. The Vander Wilk Family are longtime founding members of First Baptist Church of Zeeland. Mike was the third-born child of the six Vander Wilk children. 

Mike graduated from Zeeland High School and served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was stationed in Germany during his time of service. He worked at Howard Miller Clock Company for several years. Mike was also an avid golfer, bowler, and a lifelong Detroit Tigers fan.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elsie; and siblings, Glenn and Nancy. He is survived by his sisters, Mary Peterson and Barbara (Vander Wilk) Davis; brother, David and Kristi Vander Wilk and extended family members.

A funeral with military honors will be held Saturday, Aug. 29 at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 246 W. Main Ave., Zeeland. Visitation will be from 10 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the funeral service. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. 

Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Zeeland.

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

Ronald Geschwendt, 88

Dr. Ronald L. Geschwendt, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, pastor, mentor, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, at the age of 88.

Ronald was born Oct. 19, 1937, in Kalamazoo and was a proud graduate of Hope College, class of 1959. His life was shaped by a deep faith and a calling to serve others. He continued his education in preparation for a lifetime of ministry, earning a bachelor of divinity from Western Theological Seminary in 1962, a master of theology from Calvin Theological Seminary in 1971, and a doctor of ministry from Westminster Seminary in 1983.

Dr. Geschwendt spent more than four decades of ministry within the Reformed Church in America (RCA). He brought his unique gift for fostering vibrant, forward-looking church families, along with his enthusiasm and warm pastoral heart, to several West Michigan congregations, always with his beloved wife, Jan, by his side. His early ministry included shepherding the growth and expansion of Fair Haven Reformed Church in Jenison and North Park Reformed Church in Kalamazoo. 

He went on to serve as senior pastor of First Reformed Church of Zeeland throughout the 1970's and 1980's, where he and Jan raised their family. Later, he ministered at Zion Reformed Church in Grandville before concluding his full-time pastoral career at First Reformed Church of Grand Haven.

A gifted communicator and dedicated mentor to pastors and church leaders, Dr. Geschwendt balanced a deep reverence for Scripture with a passion for making its message meaningful and accessible to people in every season of life. His ministry extended far beyond the pulpit. Through his work with Words of Hope and his contributions to the Sunday School Guide, he continued to share the message of Scripture with people well beyond the walls of the churches he served.

One of the most meaningful chapters of his later ministry was his work with the Commissioned Pastor Program for the Regional Synod of the Great Lakes. As coordinator of the program, Ron devoted himself to identifying, equipping, encouraging, and mentoring men and women who felt called to serve the church. He had a special gift for recognizing potential in others and helping them develop the confidence, knowledge, and spiritual foundation needed to answer that call. 

Ronald was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janice "Jan" Geschwendt, who died in July 2023. Jan was his partner in every sense of the word - his greatest supporter and constant companion throughout their life together. With her quick wit, outgoing spirit, and wonderful gift for making people feel welcome, Jan brought laughter, friendship, and fun wherever they went. She stood beside Ron throughout his years of ministry - typing sermons, matching his tempo on the organ, keeping everyone's grammar in check, and cooking countless batches of bluegill. Together, they opened their home and their lives to countless people along the way. 

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Mark (Carla) Geschwendt and Mark's daughter, Marisa; David (Cami) Geschwendt and their children, Joshua (Kate), Zachary, Tristan, and Cameron; and Amy Farnsley and her children, Paige, Nicole, Griffen, and Meredith; great-grandchildren Lila and Linc Lee, children of Joshua and Kate; sisters, Marlene Reed, Janet McKnee, and Bonnie (Dick) Dykehouse; extended family, lifelong friends, and the many people whose lives he influenced through his ministry.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Arvin and Genevieve Geschwendt; and brother, Vernon Geschwendt. 

A service celebrating Ronald's life was held Saturday, Aug. 22, at First Reformed Church, 301 Washington Ave., Grand Haven. Burial was in Lake Forest Cemetery in Grand Haven.

Memorial contributions may be made to Words of Hope at woh.org or by mail to 700 Ball Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Joyce Mulder, 84

Joyce Mulder, 84, of Zeeland passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2026.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, James and Tillie Mulder; and her sister and brother-in-law, Gloria and Andrew DeKam.

Joyce was a lifelong member of First Christian Reformed Church in Zeeland. She enjoyed a long career in the banking world, first at First Michigan Bank and then Huntington Bank where she retired from. She was a gentle and quiet soul.

She is survived by her nephew and nieces, Don and Kyong-Sun DeKam, Brenda DeKam, and Jeanna Spoors.


Memorial contributions may be given to Zeeland Christian School.

Timothy Owen, 68

Timothy Dale Owen, known to many as Tim, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026 in Holland at the age of 68. 

Tim was born on Dec. 7, 1957, in Gary, Ind. He was a Christian man who sought to live with humility, devotion, and gratitude. He carried himself with a generous spirit, a warm sense of humor, and a loving heart that touched everyone blessed to know him. 

Tim graduated from Crown Point High School in 1976, and throughout his life he remained a hardworking and dedicated man. Tim retired from Mittal Steel in 2025 after many years of faithful service. He was respected by those who worked alongside him and appreciated for the quiet strength and dependability he brought to his work. 

Tim was also an accomplished musician, and music was one of the great joys of his life. He could play any string instrument put in his hands, and his gift was matched by his passion. Music was not merely something he performed, but something he lived and loved. It was a part of who he was, and it brought him joy as well as joy to those who listened. His devotion to music was matched only by his devotion to his family, and both were central to the way he lived each day.

Family was the heart of Tim’s life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Theresa; his sons, Steven and his wife Brittney, and Peter; sister, Becky; and grandchildren, Emerson, Elsie, Everleigh, and Emma. He treasured his role as husband, father, grandfather, and brother, and he found great happiness in the time he spent with those he loved most. 

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Naomi Owen, whose memory remained important to him throughout his life. He carried forward the lessons and love he received from them, and his own life became a reflection of the family values he held dear. Though he is no longer with us in body, his legacy lives on in the family he loved, the music he shared, and the countless memories he created with those around him.

A private graveside service for family and close friends was to take place at Zeeland - Felch Street Cemetery.

When I was 41 years old, I felt that God was calling me to pursue full-time ministry. 

By Brandi Hafler

When I was 41 years old, I felt that God was calling me to pursue full-time ministry. 

This was the third time that I had sensed this and the first two times, doors closed when I pursued it. I thought that I was imagining things. I tried to ignore it for a while, believing that it would fade. 

After about 10 days, the prompting was still strong and convicting, so I started sharing it with people close to me. Unlike before, each person affirmed the calling. I then applied to college and was accepted. I requested confirmation from my church to pursue ordination and it was granted. Every door that was previously closed, opened wide.

At the same time, I found myself in the center of spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional battles unlike any I had ever experienced. In 2 Corinthians 12:7, Paul wrote of a thorn in his flesh that kept him humble. I was given a thorn in my heart that shook me to the core. It confused me. It made me question God, myself, my calling, and where it was leading me.  

I sunk into a deep depression. I began losing weight.  I couldn’t sleep. The year that I began pursuing God’s calling on my life also placed me in the midst of a storm. 

Two years later, some of the storm still raged. Though part of the spiritual battle was over, the thorn remained. That year, my father died unexpectedly. Changes in my workplace created a tense work environment. I felt the need to step away from youth ministry with girls that I loved like my own. These things packed more pain around my thorn. I was at the edge of my strength. This became a year of darkness.

During those years, I spent many nights, many lunch breaks, many long walks arguing with God. I begged Him to remove the thorn. I asked Him, “How much longer, Lord?” I told Him, “I can’t do this. You will have to do it through me.” Through the storm and in the darkness, God periodically reminded me that He was there, that He saw me, and that He was moving. 

I would often spend my breaks at work praying on a bench outside of the building. One day while I was there, I noticed a young woman jog by on the road. Several people jogged by every day, so I paid little attention. I closed my eyes, a minute later, a female voice said, “Hi!”  

I looked up and the jogger was standing on the sidewalk near me. After exchanging pleasantries, we realized that we knew each other. She had attended school with my oldest son years before. 

She said, “As I was jogging by, I felt like God wanted me to stop and tell you to persist. Persevere. Keep moving forward. Does that mean anything to you?” I felt like a light had just pierced the darkness that threatened to swallow me. It was a spark of hope, a word to stay the course. 

Weeks later, I was taking a walk in my neighborhood, arguing with God (again). I noticed a decorative sign in a yard just two blocks from my house. It read, “Hold on child, I’ve got you. Love, God.” 

I stopped and looked at it for a several seconds, then kept walking. Then I turned around, walked back, trespassed in a stranger’s front yard, and took a picture with my phone. 

A few days after I saw the sign, God began turning everything around. He started by healing my marriage. Then he gave me a new job. He eventually led me to a ministry that is different from what I had, but better than I could have ever imagined. In the process, He removed the thorn and healed my heart. 

Proverbs 20:24 reads, “A person’s steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand their own way?”  Through the storm and the darkness, the pain and the uncertainty, God was directing my steps. I didn’t understand where I was going, but God knew and He was guiding every step. 

Do you find yourself in a season of darkness today? Are you in a storm that is threatening to sink you? Let this be your message from God to persist. Persevere. Keep moving forward. Take moments to cry out to Him, ask Him the hard I questions, ask Him to be your strength, but then take one more step. And hold on to His message that never changes. 

“Hold on child, I’ve got you. Love, God.”

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