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Dennis Gebben, 81, of Zeeland, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

Dennis Gebben, 81

Dennis Gebben, 81, of Zeeland, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

Dennis was born Aug. 24, 1943, in Zeeland, to Albert and Kathryn (Nagelkirk) Gebben. He graduated from Holland Christian High School, Grand Valley State College, and Western Michigan University. He married Nancy Ver Hulst in 1967.

Dennis was an environmental geologist and worked most of his professional career at Williams and Works Engineering. Later in life, he worked in real estate, specializing in farmland, and did some environmental consulting.

Dennis was a member of Third Reformed Church where he served as an elder and deacon. He served on the Zeeland City Council from 1975 to 1982, and later on the Holland Township Planning Commission for several years. Dennis also served his country for four years in the U.S. Air Force in the 1960s.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Nancy; their children and grandchildren, Dan Gebben, Katie and Dayne Jarvis (Josie, Stella, Addy, Gabe), Kristin and Duncan Jackson (Lily), Kara and John Green (Penny, Lucy, Owen); siblings, Barb Schmidt, Ruth and Ron Grassmid, John and Jan Gebben, Steve and Bev Gebben; sister-in-law, Helen Ver Hulst, and many extended family members.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 22 at Third Reformed Church, 111 W. 13th St., Holland. Visiting hours will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, March 21, also at Third Reformed Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Third Reformed Church, Resthaven, or NPR Blue Lake 88.9 FM.

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

Charlotte Van Haitsma, 89

Charlotte (Char) Van Haitsma, of Zeeland, passed away Friday, March 14, 2025, on her 89th birthday.

Char was born March 14, 1936, in Holland, to Isaac & Cornelia (Vanden Heuvel) Kleis. She graduated from Holland Christian High School and later married Dale Van Haitsma on Sept. 14, 1956.

Dale and Char raised their children in Zeeland and were charter members of Haven Christian Reformed Church. Char and Dale are currently members of Covenant Presbyterian Church. She worked as a cashier at several area grocery stores and retired from Langeland-Sterenberg and Yntema Funeral Homes following 15 years of service.

Char was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers and in-laws: Gerald Kleis, Ken and Margaret Kleis, Stan and Ruth Kleis, Roger Kleis, Richard De Korte, Dale Eding, Glenn and Ruth Van Haitsma and Rosie Van Haitsma.

She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Dale; their children and grandchildren, Linda and Tom Barense (Brian and Kerri Johnson, Nick and Kylie Weaver, Josh and Kaylin Isenga), Mary and Denny Achterhof (Katie Mulder, Bradley and Kalynn Achterhof, Amy and Mike Quick), Mike and Amy Van Haitsma (Madison and Tucker De Graaf, Sydney Van Haitsma), 15 great-grandchildren; in-laws, Marge Kleis, Terry and Judy Van Haitsma and Carol De Korte-Eding; and many extended family and friends.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, March 18, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1015 E. 32nd St., Holland. Interment was in Zeeland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Cure International, 70 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Thelma Pelon, 87

Thelma Pelon, 87, of Zeeland, died Friday, March 14, 2025.

She was a member of Central Avenue Christian Reformed Church and worked in food service for many years, ending her career at Zeeland Bakery.

Thelma was preceded in death by her husband, Aud, in 2015; siblings, Laura Beelen, Ken and Elaine Beelen, Howard and Vonnie Beelen, Vern and Lucille Beelen and Milt Beelen; in-laws, Aggie Beelen, Ed Pelon, Anita and Jerome Essink and Mary Beelen.

She is survived by her children, Cal and Jane Pelon, Sue and Chuck Plockmeyer, Sally Pelon and Sherri Walters; grandchildren, Dave and Cassie Pelon, Lisa and Micah Van Regenmorter, Jon and Stacy Pelon, Kevin and Alicia Plockmeyer, Jeff and Kristin Keen, Kory and Lauren Plockmeyer, Emily Walters, Kara and Micah Kooyers, Christopher and Kynedi Walters; 20 great-grandchildren with another great-granddaughter soon to arrive; brother, Rev. Marvin Beelen; sisters-in-law, Mary Beelen and Gloria Pelon; several nieces and nephews.

The Pelon family would like to thank Grace and Faith of Hospice of Holland for the long-term gracious care they gave their mother.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 18 at Central Avenue Christian Reformed Church, 259 Central Ave., Holland, with Revs. Chad Steenwyk and Kevin Kornelis officiating. Burial was in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Holland Christian Schools or Hospice of Holland.

Delores Rady, 88

Dolores Ann (Lorrie) Rady, 88, of West Olive, passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at SKLD in Zeeland.

Dolores was born in Durand to Hollis and Iva Porteron on May 2, 1936. She completed two years of coursework at Michigan State University, where she met her husband, Harold A. Rady, Jr. They were married Aug. 22, 1956 and he survives.

Delores was a full-time homemaker who worked in local antique shops and as an assistant librarian. She loved her Chihuahua, her Scottish Terrier and three Golden Retrievers as well as her multitudes of ducks and geese.

In addition to her husband, Dolores is survived by her children, Jennifer and Greg Holt of Holland, and Patrick Rady and partner Marc Williams, of Ypsilanti; grandchildren, Phillip Holt and Nicholas Holt of Holland; and nephew, Chris Rady of Morehead City, N.C. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial donations may be made to the Harbor Humane Society, 14345 Bagley St., West Olive, MI 49460. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Holland Hospital Home Care staff, SKLD Nursing and Emmanuel Hospice.

Muriel DeVos, 71

Muriel “Mert” DeVos, 71, passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and joy.

Born on April 4, 1953, Mert’s life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and her commitment to caring for others.

 Mert’s passion for learning was evident from her early days, as she graduated from Calvin Christian High School and pursued a career in nursing. Her educational journey led her to the Pine Rest School of Nursing where she earned her LPN, and she continued to expand her knowledge and skills, receiving her BSN from the University of Michigan.

Mert’s dedication to her profession was unmatched. She worked tirelessly at Mary Free Bed and Butterworth Hospital in the intensive care unit before earning her Nurse Practitioner degree at Grand Valley State University. Her career took her to an infertility clinic and then to Zeeland Community Hospital, where she served as a hospitalist, touching the lives of countless individuals with her kindness and expertise.

 Mert will be dearly missed by her siblings, Linda (Steve) Verkaik, Sandy Frye, Connie (Tom) Witte, Ron DeVos and Carla (Terry) VenHuizen; and her numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Barbara DeVos; and her niece, Cassie Witte.

 Relatives and friends may meet with Mert’s family on Saturday, March 29 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Immanuel Christian Reformed Church, 3520 Kiel St., Hudsonville, where a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Burial will take place at Rosedale Memorial Park Cemetery in Tallmadge Township.

William Bird, 77

William “Bill” Bird, 77, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.

He was the son of Gilbert and Wilhelmina Bird and was preceded in death by his brother, Leonard Bird.

“Bird” is survived by his wife of 54 years, Jenine; children, Josh (Jamie) Bird, Sarah (Lance) Young; grandchildren, Lena Young, Kayden Bird, Hailey Young, Kyler Young, Bryce Bird and Tessa Bird; brother, Thomas (Rita) Bird; in-laws, Patrice Sysko, Norman (Char) Prins and Gerritt Zylstra; several nieces and nephews.

Bill grew up on the East Coast in New Jersey and Delaware. He attended Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa, where he studied vocal music and met his beautiful wife and dearest ally, Jenine. They shared immense passions for music, antiques, and flowers.

“Mr. Bird” is a name that those who have experienced him will carry in their hearts for a lifetime. Mr. Bird taught vocal music for 41 years. Beginning at Western Christian High School in Hull, Iowa, he taught for 22 years, from 1969 to 1991. He then taught at Holland Christian High School for 19 years, from 1991 to 2010. Mr. Bird meaningfully impacted thousands of students with both his presence in their lives, as well as their experiences as members of his choirs. Mr. Bird deeply loved both the Western Christian and Holland Christian communities, and proudly valued the honor of teaching. Mr. Bird always emphasized that “everyone can sing!”

A celebration of life service will be at 3 p.m. today at Christ Memorial Church, 595 Graafschap Rd., Holland, with Rev. Gary Matthews officiating. Jenine’s request is that “no one wears black.” Echoing true Mr. Bird form, “bright and colorful dress would be appreciated.” A time of fellowship will follow the service. A private family burial will take place in Graafschap Cemetery.

A livestream of the service will be available at youtube.com/live/ e_hs8wrDB6o.

In Mr. Bird’s honor, an endowment will be set up at Holland Christian High School to support the vocal music department: hollandchristian.org/donate. All memorial gifts in Bill’s name will go to this endowment.

Elizabeth VanWieren, 30

Elizabeth Renee VanWieren, 30, of Holland, passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

She was a graduate of Zeeland East High School and earned a degree in nursing from Grand Rapids Community College. She most recently worked in home health care.

Elizabeth is survived by her parents, Timothy and Christina VanWieren; boyfriend, Uriel (Rudy) Campa and their dog “Goose”; brother, Adam and Kalynne VanWieren; sister, Sarah VanWieren; grandparents, Ted Fik and Merry VanWieren. She was preceded in death by her grandma, Hazel Fik and grandpa, Robert “Bob” VanWieren, and an aunt, Michelle Kruithof.

A private service will be held with burial in Graafschap Cemetery. A celebration of Elizabeth’s life will be held at a later date.

Keith Mokma, 69

Keith Laren Mokma, 69, of Holland, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, March 10, 2025.

Keith was a longstanding member of Family Church - Ebenezer Campus, where he served in various capacities throughout the years. He was a lifelong farmer, taking pride in working the land God gave us. He enjoyed attending tractor pulls, camping, playing cards, jigsaw puzzles, and watching activities and sporting events of his children and grandchildren.

Keith is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Kathy; children, Jennifer (James) Addessi of Zeeland, Matt (Reba) Mokma of Hamilton and Rob (Paige) Mokma of Hudsonville; grandchildren, Brianna Gabrion, Brendan Gabrion (Tiernan Nykamp), Madelyn Gabrion, Luciana Addessi, Giovanni Addessi, Kolton Mokma, Easton Mokma, Deacon Mokma, Kennadi Mokma, Austin Mokma and Addison Mokma; brothers, Arnold (Marilyn) Mokma of Wooster, Ohio, Delbert (Betty) Mokma of Kentwood, and Earl (Judy) Mokma of Zeeland; in-laws, Cal (Jane) Van Oss of Holland, Chuck (Amy) Van Oss of Hamilton, Karen Van Oss of Holland, Kristy (Alan) Brown of Holland, and several nieces and nephews.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Jeannette Mokma; brother, Allen Mokma; sister-in-law, Marilyn Mokma; and parents-in-law, Howard and Joan Van Oss.

Funeral services were held Friday, March 14 at Family Church - Ebenezer Campus, 5166 E. Ottogan Rd., Holland with Pastor Keith Stewart officiating. Burial was in East Holland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Family Church Ebenezer Campus Local Missions Fund.

Have you ever wondered, “What happens in-between?” 

By Jerry D. Ousley

Have you ever wondered, “What happens in-between?” 

Of course, the obvious question is “in-between what?”  

I’m specifically speaking about our prayers and their answers. Many have asked God and haven’t yet received. It makes us wonder, “Is God even listening to me?” or “Is God really there?” or “Why would Jesus say that He would answer us and He hasn’t?”

There could be many more obvious questions that make us wonder and sometimes even doubt.

Is it a lack of faith? Many may accuse you of not having enough faith, but Jesus said that it only took an amount of faith the size of a tiny mustard seed (see Matthew 17:20). I don’t think that, in most cases, a lack of faith is the problem.

There are six places in the New Testament where Jesus said that if we ask anything in His name, He will do it. You can read them in John 14:13-14, John 15:16 and John 16:23-26.  

The key is asking in His name – on His behalf, as an ambassador of Christ. The United States has ambassadors in many foreign countries. These individuals are acting on behalf of our country.  

Likewise, we ask in Christ.  Asking in His name means that we ask for what He would ask for. We are His ambassadors. We are acting on His behalf. Whether in our personal life or that of someone else, we are seeking the will of Christ in the given situation.  

This being established, it explains what James said (see James 4:3), “You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.” Those who tell you that you can ask for mansions, luxury automobiles, expensive clothing and jewelry and that God wants to lavish it on you are teaching false doctrine.

Selfish, extravagant prayers will be answered with a “No!” But when we ask according to the will of God, for what Jesus would have asked for as His representative, then we are told that we shall have it.

Okay, but now that you have asked in Jesus’ name, on His behalf, you’d think that you would get it. “Why hasn’t my prayer been answered?”

Of course, each situation is different, and the circumstances unique so there probably is not an instant every time answer. Some prayers do get answered right away. Some seem to take forever. The key to patiently waiting on the answer lies in the question we should be asking, “What is taking place in between the time I ask and the time I receive?”  

To illustrate what I’m talking about, I’d like to use a couple of examples from the Old Testament. The first one is found in Daniel 10.  Daniel had witnessed a vision of a strange-looking man walking along the shores of the Tigris River.

Daniel heard his words but didn’t understand their meaning. He prayed and sought God about it. Before he saw the vision, he had a message revealed to him, and for three long weeks he prayed and fasted seeking the answer. It was shortly after he had seen the vision that an angel from God touched him on the shoulder and told him that he had been sent by God to bring him the answer immediately when he prayed, but that the prince of the kingdom of Persia had withstood him for 21 days.

One of the chief angels of heaven came to his assistance (Michael in Daniel 10:13) and he was relieved to continue to Daniel to give him his answer. It is an example of how the devil will attempt to thwart our prayers. He doesn’t want us to get an answer. At times our delayed answer could be because of a battle in the unseen.

Another example is that of Hannah (see 1 Samuel 1 and 2). She was the second wife of Elkanah. He loved her but she was barren and desperately wanted a child. She had spent several long years praying for a child.
Elkanah’s other wife made fun of her and boasted how that she was able to bear children for her husband but Hannah could not.  

Each year they traveled to Jerusalem for the feast of the Passover. At the last one they had attended, Hannah prayed long without moving her lips and the high priest, Eli, thought she was intoxicated. When he confronted her, she told him that she had prayed for years to bear a child, to which Eli told her to go her way and that God had answered her prayer. He told her this in a way that sounds more like he was trying to get rid of her. But she believed, and by the next year she gave birth to Samuel.

When the answer seems long in coming, that doesn’t mean that God is ignoring you or putting you off. It doesn’t mean that He doesn’t hear you or that you aren’t important to Him. What it does mean is that He is working in between your prayer and your answer to bring everything into alignment so that your answer comes at just the right moment.

I have heard of mothers and grandmothers who earnestly sought God on behalf of their children and grandchildren. It seemed like the answer would never come. In some cases, the answer did not come until the one praying had left this world for heaven. But then, just at the right moment, when it was most needed, that child or grandchild turned to God and their answer came.

So, my message to you is that if you have not asked amiss, and you have prayed in the will of Christ, know that your answer will come. It could be immediate, or it could take awhile. Just always remember that God continues to work all through the in-between.

—————

Jerry D. Ousley is the author of “Soul Challenge”, “Soul Journey”, “Ordeal”, “The Spirit Bread Daily Devotional” and his first novel “The Shoe Tree.” Newer books include “Finality” and “Dividing God's Church.”

Read: John 11:1-4, 17-27, 38-44
“This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God.” (v. 4)

By Genci Hoxha

Read: John 11:1-4, 17-27, 38-44

“This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God.” (v. 4)

As a child, I was terrified of death. I was afraid that I might suddenly die, and that thought always left me with deep anguish. And then five years ago, I experienced a profound change. My mother died after battling cancer for more than 18 months.

I still remember the night my mother passed away; as a family, we were all around her. I was holding her hands as I tried to give her courage. We kept telling her, “Don’t be afraid, Mom, Jesus is waiting for you. You have trusted him and he is never going to forsake you.” I ­remember that moment and the silence when she slowly ceased to breathe. It was like she was going to sleep. She quietly passed away.

Despite my shock and grief, this was also the moment I felt the infinite presence and love of God as I had never experienced before. Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life” (v. 25). Having Jesus means to have resurrection and life within us forever.

Since there is no resurrection apart from Christ, there is also no eternal life apart from Christ. Not only does he give life, but he is life and therefore, death has no ultimate power over him. For this reason, if you believe in him, though you may die to this life, you shall live because Jesus is our champion over death.

As you pray, give thanks to Jesus that through his death and resurrection we have eternal life.

—————

Genci Hoxha is one of the leaders at a local church in Tirana, ­Albania where he is also involved in the ministry of teaching and preaching the Word. For 19 years, he served full-time with CRU in Albania. Three years ago, he published his first poetry book entitled “Pasqyra e Qiellit” (English: The Sky’s Reflection).

Roger Lee Brandsen, 88, of Olive Township, passed away Saturday, March 8, 2025 at home.

Roger Brandsen, 88

Roger Lee Brandsen, 88, of Olive Township, passed away Saturday, March 8, 2025 at home.

Roger was born in Olive Township March 19, 1936 to Harry and Wilma (Hop) Brandsen. He was a lifelong member of South Olive Christian Reformed Church, where he served as an elder, Sunday School teacher and council member.

Roger worked for Chris-Craft Corporation and S2 Yachts/Tiara Yachts, and retired after a lifelong career in the boating industry. He was active in South Olive Christian School, supporting any way he could, along with Crossroads Ministries. In his spare time, Roger could be found singing bass in the Light Bearers Quartet (which he helped found) and tending to his beloved garden.

He was preceded in death by his son, Brian Brandsen.

Roger is survived by his wife of 67 years, Carolyn; children, Laurie Brandsen, Terry (Rhonda) Brandsen, Marlin (Paula) Brandsen, and Lynette (Jeff) Wehrmeyer; 14 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren (and two more on the way); daughter-in-law, Gayle; sisters, Ruth Kooiker and Shirley Barclay; in-laws, Arlene Slagh and Delores Slagh; many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.

A service to celebrate Roger’s life was held Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at South Olive CRC, with Pastor Doug Fauble officiating. Burial was in Olive Township Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Aric’s Mission or South Olive Christian School.

Joseph Wild, 94

Joseph Wild, 94, of Zeeland, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, March 7, 2025.

Joe was born Dec. 14, 1930 in Salford, England. He survived the bombing of Salford in 1940, during World War II. Joe served in the British Army and was proud to share his many memories. He met the love of his life, Olive, at the age of 14, and they married Oct. 6, 1951.

In 1960 Joe and Olive, along with their two daughters, immigrated to the United States, settling in Zeeland. Together, in 1995, they became American citizens, while never forgetting their British heritage.

Joe was a sheet metal worker by trade, retiring from Veneklasen Auto Parts, where he was affectionately known as the radiator man.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Olive Wild (2002); daughters, Rita (1954), Pauline (2023) and Susan (2024); sisters, Ivy and Nora; and brother, Albert.

Joe will be greatly missed by his surviving daughter, Lynn (Dave) Machiele; son-in-law, Timothy Garvelink; grandchildren, Kimberly (Kevin) Van Huizen, LaVonne Burford, Tammy (Brian) Owen, Jennifer Harper, Angela Spencer, Christopher (Sarah) Brummels, Amy (Jeff) March, Kyle (Tomara) Wild, Tara Prins, Ethan Machiele and Noah Machiele; great-grandchildren, Kolten, Kameron, Cayden, Steven, Kenneth, Malorie, Joshua, Justin, Kalib, Moshawn, Alexea, Zaden, Destiny, Mila and Carter; seven great-great-grandchildren; nephews, Eric (Sally) Cammenga, Scott Cammenga, and Raymond (Elaine) Martin, and a multitude of friends around the world.

Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 8 p.m. at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland. A service to celebrate Joe’s life will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 14 at Lakeshore Memorial Services. Burial will be at Zeeland Cemetery on Lincoln Street.

Judith Cook, 80

Judith Anne Cook, 80, of Zeeland, passed away Thursday, March 6, 2025.

Judy was a positive influence on countless students and families over the years. She served as a teacher at numerous schools in the area over her career. She continuously cared for and maintained relationships with former students until this very day.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Cook; brother, Jim Vander Wall; and sister, Sue Berkenpas.

She is survived by her children, Rachel Rice, Mark Cook and Anna Cook; grandchildren, Derek Rice, Jacob Rice, Jasmine Cook, Isaac and Jenna Cook, Alex Smith and Tyler Smith; two great-grandchildren; brother, David and Connie Vander Wall; sister-in-law, Nancy VanderWall; brother-in-law, Jimmy Lee Berkenpas; and her in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Foundation Church, 387 W. Lakewood Dr., Holland, with Pastor David Spoelma officiating. Burial took take place in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given in Judith’s honor to Foundation Church, 387 W. Lakewood Dr. Holland, MI 49424.

Judith Steggerda, 81

Judith Kay Steggerda (VanderPloeg), 81, of Holland, passed away Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

Judy was born in Holland May 23, 1943 to John and Josephine (Knoll) VanerPloeg and was a lifelong resident of the area. She graduated from Holland Christian High School, and worked for Joel’s Photographic Concepts and Quality Machine & Automation for many years. Judy was a lifetime member of Pillar Church and also attended Central Wesleyan Church.

Judy was preceded in death by her first husband, Steven Steggerda; brothers, Dave VanderPloeg, Earl VanderPloeg and Webb (Joyce) VanderPloeg.

She is survived by her husband, Joel Spykerman; sons, Scott (Julie) Steggerda and Spencer (Wendy) Steggerda; grandchildren, Steven (Kelli) Steggerda, Tyler (Brittany) Steggerda, Rachel (Austin) Headley, Nicole (Chaz) Meyaard, Brittany Lemmen and Zeb (Marisa) Steggerda; seven great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law, Sheryl VanderPloeg, Marge VanderPloeg, Paul (Linda) Steggerda and Nick (Kathy) DeVries.

A service to celebrate Judy’s life is being finalized, tentatively being planned for May 3, 2025 at Pillar Church, 57 E. 10th St., Holland.

Margaret Dreyer, 87

Margaret A. Dreyer, 87, of Holland, entered her heavenly home on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

Born in Holland, she graduated from Holland Christian High School and was a member of Rose Park Reformed Church. She was a faithful servant who enjoyed singing in the choir, participating in ladies guilds and was a Stephens Minister. She and her husband established Prairie View Farms where they lived their whole life, and later had a partnership with their sons.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Spencer Dreyer; daughters, Julie Dreyer in 1982 and Lisa Dreyer in 1966; son, Brian Dreyer in 2014; son in-law, Gary Israels in 2002; great-grandson, Zachary Israels in 2013; and step-great-grandson, Carter Brink in 2017.

Margaret is survived by her children, Debra (Rick) Prince, Pamela Dreyer and Brent (Amy) Dreyer, all of Holland; grandchildren, Kyle and Holly Israels, Melissa and Jim VanderZwaag, Brandon and Anna Israels, Jon and Leslie Israels, Carson Dreyer and Jay Grothause, Mallory Dreyer, Clara Dreyer and fiancé Ibrahim Imtiaz, Chase and Hannah Dreyer, Brody Dreyer and Tori Dreyer; great-grandchildren, Levi VanderZwaag, Elliot VanderZwaag, Tyler Israels, Caleb Israels, Maelynn Israels, Maddie Israels, Rex Israels, Penelope Israels and Cameron Israels; three step-grandchildren and 10 step-great-grandchildren; twin sister, Marilyn Maidens of San Diego, Calif.; brothers and sisters in-law, Gary (Sandy) Dreyer of Holland, Leona Wassink of Holland, Ann Basset of Brewster, New York and Joel Glasshower of Zeeland.

A funeral service was held on Monday, March 10 at Rose Park Reformed Church, 14241 Rose Park Dr., Holland, with Rev. Mark Waterstone officiating. Interment was in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Holland Christian Schools, Corewell Hospice and the American Stroke Association.

Ann Lawrence, 90

Ann M. Lawrence, 90, went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

She was born Ann M. Veldman on Nov. 19, 1934, just outside of Grand Rapids, to John and Annette Veldman. The family moved to Holland when Ann was a young girl. She was a 1952 graduate of Holland High School and spent most of her life in the Holland area.

Ann married George R. Lawrence on Dec. 19, 1952. They were married for 65 years and had four sons. She was a charter member of the Rose Park Reformed Church, serving in the women’s group and singing in the choir.

Ann is predeceased by her husband, George; brothers, Martin and John; and son, Rodney.

She is survived by her sons, Randall (Deborah), Thomas (Vicki) and Timothy (Cindy); daughter-in-law, Ilene; grandchildren, Miranda (Paul), Colin (Ancy), Miriah (Joseph), Heidi (Adam), Joshua (Alicia), Ashley (Bill), Ara (Alex) and Matthew (Mary); great-grandchildren, Henry, Elenor, Coleman, Calan, and Walt.

A funeral service was held Saturday, March 8 at Rose Park Reformed Church, 14241 Rose Park Dr., Holland, with Rev. Mark Waterstone officiating. Burial was in Restlawn Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be given to Border Buddies Ministries, Inc., P.O. Box 1254, Elmira, NY 14902, Rose Park Reformed Church, or Faith Hospice.

James Johnson, 71

James (Jim) Johnson, 71, of Zeeland, passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

Jim was born Sept. 14, 1953, in Allegan to Herbert Sr. and Florence (Briel) Johnson. He attended Holland Public Schools and became a heavy equipment mechanic. The majority of Jim’s work life was repairing heavy equipment at Louis Padnos Iron and Metal Co.

Jim and his wife Michelle are members of Community Reformed Church in Zeeland.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Elizabeth Starrett and Herbert Johnson Jr.; stepson, Sean Nyland; and father-in-law, Earl Nyland.

He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Michelle (Nyland) Johnson; children, Heather Bradford (Dusty), Melissa Johnson and Ryan Johnson (Emilee); grandchildren, Dean Windemuller (Gina), Emily Dornbush, Mallory Dornbush, Sidney Bradford, Althea Johnson and Arlo Johnson; stepdaughter, Skye Nyland; siblings, Jeanett Burchfield, John Johnson, Ruth Cronberg, Viola Garza, Joy Kievit, Mitchell Johnson and Mary Van Kampen; mother-in-law, Dorothy Nyland; brothers-in-law, Steve Nyland and Terry Nyland (Kim); and many extended family members and friends.

A memorial service was held Friday, March 7, 2025, in “The Mosaic” at Community Reformed Church, 10376 Felch St., Zeeland.

Memorial contributions may be made to RHF-Alzheimer’s Research Center, Mail Stop 11202C, 640 Jackson St., St. Paul, MN 55101.

Harold Kuiper, 96

Harold Kuiper, 96, passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Quincy Place in Holland.

Harold was a lifelong member of Bethany Christian Reformed Church, where he enjoyed singing in the choir. He attended Holland Christian High School and worked at Baker Furniture for more than 40 years.

Harold was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Joyce Kuiper; daughter, Wanda Dallas; granddaughter, Melissa; great-grandson, Josiah; brothers, George (Gladys) Kuiper and Kenneth Kuiper; and brother-in-law, Audley (Lillian) Boeve.

He is survived by his children, Yvonne (Randy) Kruithoff, Karen (Mike) Lemmen and Todd (Julie) Kuiper; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; brother, Ronald (Donna) Kuiper; and sister-in-law, Lillian Kuiper.

A funeral service was held Saturday, March 8 at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S State St., Zeeland, with Pastor Dan Walcott officiating. Burial was in East Holland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Holland Christian Schools and Samaritan’s Purse.

Kenneth Bosch, 93

Kenneth M. Bosch, 93, of Zeeland, died Tuesday, March 3, 2025 at his home.

He was preceded in death by his son, David in 1968 and his son-in-law, Allen Menear in 2022.

Ken was a member of Central Avenue Christian Reformed Church and retired from Sligh Furniture following 45 years of employment.

Ken is survived by his wife of 68 years, Lois; children, Cheryl Menear, Janet (Jeffrey) Lambert, Robert (Cindy) Bosch, Michael Bosch; grandchildren, Kenneth Menear, Corey Menear, Kevin (Rachel) Lambert, Brandon Lambert, Jeremy Lambert, Kyle (Kahisha) Bosch, Ryan Bosch, Daniel (Kayla) Bosch, Katie (Daniel) Valero, Alex Lanser, Elizabeth Lanser and Adam Lanser; seven great-grandchildren; in-laws, Marilyn Konyndyk, Jack (Ruth) Dood; and special Tucker nieces and nephew who were like siblings.

Funeral services were Friday, March 7 at Central Avenue Christian Reformed Church, 259 Central Ave., Holland, with Rev. Chad Steenwyk officiating. Burial was in Zeeland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Zeeland Christian Schools.

For everyone involved with this past winter’s Emergency Warming Center effort, the level of commitment from volunteers has been inspiring.

By Jeff Gill

For everyone involved with this past winter’s Emergency Warming Center effort, the level of commitment from volunteers has been inspiring.

Over a hundred people gave at least one shift, some multiple shifts within any one activation, from setting up to closing down and all the midnight hours in between.

There are two kinds of conversations I’ve had with volunteers that stick with me as the daffodils bloom and warmth increases both day and night. One sort is with people who came to our training last fall or who wanted to participate after the winter season of warming center nights began.

That first kind of conversation is with someone who wants to help but isn’t sure how well they can handle the situation. It may be a practical question of their ability to stay up at unusual hours like midnight to 5 a.m. or so, or it can be concerns over preparedness for talking to people who are the guests of this operation.

In general, I have no trouble being very encouraging, and explain that between coffee and more experienced volunteers, little comes up that anyone couldn’t cope with. If you’ve been a band trip chaperone, it almost seems familiar (shout out to band parents everywhere).

The tougher one is with people who’ve done a shift with the warming center, and have encountered what I think may be the hardest part of volunteering with an effort like this: going home, yourself.

Many people who have done a first experience with the warming center as a volunteer say they knew homelessness was a problem, was real, and happens to people very much like you or me. But then you help serve meals to people who are dealing with homelessness, assign cots and pass out blankets, pour coffee and hot chocolate for appreciative guests  …  and when your shift ends, go home. But it gets hard, sometimes on the drive home, occasionally once you’re back to your own secure, warm, often quiet house in the middle of the night. And it hits you, hard.

I don’t have a simple answer to how you handle the strange feelings that wash over you in that moment. Some people, I know, have done a single shift, and didn’t come back not because the work of volunteering was so challenging, but the trip home felt almost impossible.

In fact, your own home looks and feels different when you return to it after working closely with a basement full of people whom you know don’t have a place to go when our activation is over. The next night it is “only” 22 degrees out, and we stand down. Those who are living unsheltered, even when there’s a clear path ahead in a week or two or three to a place they can rent or borrow or be assigned to, they have in the interim no place to go but their car, or some stairwell, or (insert options I’m aware of but don’t want to describe lest others move to close off: this has happened before).

For myself, it’s often a time of prayer and reflection that late night or early morning after I’ve done my shift, and I’m back in my own home.

I don’t want to say I feel less secure, but the contingency of any one person’s situation is much more real to me. I see the jagged edges of the cliff now that were fogged and invisible to me before. It’s better to know where they are, right? In the fog you can’t see the abyss, but it’s there. Now that I see some of those hazards, it’s also hard not to think about how you could help others avoid a fall.

But home does not look the same. Which is fine, if it leads to thankfulness. That’s a good place to be, wherever you find yourself.

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Jeff Gill is a writer, storyteller, and preacher in central Ohio; he knows there’s no place like home. Tell him how you found your way to yours at knapsack77@gmail. com, or follow @Knapsack77 on Threads or Bluesky.

“Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, ‘Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?’” (v. 5)

By Genci Hoxha

Read: John 6:1-15

“Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, ‘Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?’” (v. 5)

Would you be prepared to answer Jesus’s question to Philip? John tells us why Jesus asked Philip: “He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do” (v. 6). Meaning, Jesus was not asking Philip because Jesus needed help problem solving. Jesus knows everything!

Jesus asked Philip in order to teach Philip about faith. “Philip answered him: ‘Two hundred denarii worth of bread would not be enough for each of them to get a little.’” (v. 7)

Philip had done his math, and according to him, even with a huge sum of money, there would not be enough to buy each one in the crowd just a small loaf of bread. Two hundred denarii back then was equal to eight months worth of work.

How should Philip have answered? He could have said: “Lord, we cannot do anything, but you alone, just as you turned water into wine, just as you healed the paralytic, you alone, if you want, can provide food for all these people. You can — you have the power to do this. Lord, please, provide for and feed these people!”

So, by asking him indirectly, Jesus urged Philip to have faith in him. It is these overwhelming situations that highlight our powerlessness, that can serve to fix our eyes on our Lord in faith.

As you pray, trust God and ask him to provide for your needs.

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Genci Hoxha is one of the leaders at a local church in Tirana, Albania where he is also involved in the ministry of teaching and preaching the Word. For 19 years, he served full-time with CRU in Albania. Three years ago, he published his first poetry book entitled “Pasqyra e Qiellit” (English: The Sky’s Reflection).