Columns

Roger Allan Nyhuis, 79, of Zeeland, passed away Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.

Roger Allan Nyhuis, 79

Roger Allan Nyhuis, 79, of Zeeland, passed away Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.

“A man of few words” - that wasn’t Roger. Roger was a man of many words, and he spent them well - on air, in song, and in encouragement to everyone he met. His voice carried across West Michigan for decades, spending 37 years at Lanser Broadcasting (WWJQ/WPNW/WJQK), where he was “Roger Allen” in the studio and behind the microphone from the very earliest days. 

Roger loved the craft of radio - sharing stories, building community, and dreaming up ways to reach more listeners. He had no shortage of ideas, and no lack of drive to make them happen - pitching concepts, finding advertisers, and doing the hard work to keep programs alive. He became the voice of the Holland Christian Maroons, calling basketball and later football, after memorable seasons broadcasting Hope College basketball. 

Even after retiring from radio, Roger refused to sit idle. He earned his real estate license and joined Keller Williams – Lakeshore in 2014.

He was equally as passionate about sharing his Christian faith through music. He sang with the Holland Heights choir, led worship on the praise team, and was a member of the Calvary 4 Quartet, carrying gospel harmonies to churches across West Michigan and beyond. Later came the Ah-men Quartet, another stage for his voice and his faith. Inspired by his love for the Holland community and lasting traditions, for years he looked forward to participating in the Holland Chorale, and the Evergreen Commons Tulip Time shows.

Most recently he also served as an elder at Holland Heights Church.

While radio, real estate and music were his passions, family was his greatest joy. To the end of his days, you could find him watching his grandchildren perform from the bleachers or auditorium seats - whether at a concert, competition, musical or play, never missing a chance to show how proud he was. 

In 2021 Roger faced bladder cancer with courage, fought hard, and celebrated four fantastic years of remission.

Roger is survived by his wife of 55 years, Marlene (Raak) Nyhuis; children, Scott and Lisa (Lohr) Nyhuis, and Amy (Nyhuis) and Marcus Ziel; grandchildren, Robert and Caitlyn Nyhuis, Madison Nyhuis and Bryce Colpaert, Becca Ziel and Drew Ziel; great-granddaughter Nora Nyhuis; brother and sister, Sherry (Nyhuis) and Mark Krouse, and Robert Nyhuis; mother-in-law, Pauline (Raak) Dyke; brother and sister-in-laws, Donna (Raak) Rouwhorst; Jim and Elaine Raak; Phyllis (Raak) and Jim VanderBilt; and many nephews and nieces.

A celebration of life service was held Tuesday, Dec. 23, at Holland Heights Christian Reformed Church at 836 E. 8th St., Holland. A private burial service will be held for the immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holland Heights Christian Reformed Church to be earmarked for the advancement of worship through music.

Arloa Vander Wal, 83

Arloa Lou Vander Wal, 83, of Allendale, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.

Arloa was born Oct. 25, 1942, in Beaverdam, to Lou and Margaret (Coeling) Grasman. She was a member of the first graduating class from Unity Christian High School and later married Ron Vander Wal on June 16, 1961. 

Arloa raised her three children with Ron and also worked as a patient escort for many years at Butterworth Hospital. She also volunteered many years as a Bible Study Fellowship discussion leader. Arloa and Ron are members of Fairway Christian Reformed Church.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Ron; children, Lori and Rod Deemter, Christon Vander Wal, Patrick and Joan Vander Wal; grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Larissa and David Yonker (Clayton, Ellie, Landon, Elyse, Brayden), Allison and Karsten Wimbush, Ryan and Makayla Deemter, Rylee Deemter, Colin and Heather Vander Wal (Rowyn, Rhett), Christa Vander Wal and fiance Ryan Popma; brothers, Jack and Barbara Grasman, Russ and Amy Grasman, and Richard and Sue Grasman; in-laws, Bernadine and Nelson Gebben, Barbara Grasman, Vicki Grasman, Sharon and Dave Wierenga, and Ken and Jan Vander Wal; and many extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Sherri Keene; brothers, Larry and Terry; and in-laws, Gerald and Martha Cnossen.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, Dec. 23, at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Interment was in Georgetown Township Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse.

James Zoerner, 90

James Zoerner, 90, of West Olive, passed peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025.

Jim was born in Kenosha, Wis. on Feb. 17, 1935 to Hugo Jr. and Erna (Poulsen) Zoerner. He was the oldest of four children and took the role of big brother very seriously.

Most of Jim’s growing up years were spent in Camden and Russellville, Ark. He graduated from Russellville High School in 1953.

After high school, Jim pursued his love of woodworking by completing a 24-month course in cabinet making at Arkansas Polytechnic College. Life was put on a brief pause when Jim was drafted into the Army and began serving his two years in early 1958. He spent most of his service time at Loring Air Force Base in Maine. 

After the Army, Jim moved to Michigan where his parents had relocated. He made good use of his cabinet-making degree by getting a job at Baker Furniture in Holland. From there he went to a small cabinet shop in Grand Haven.

As a child of vagabond parents and grandparents, Jim really wanted to put down roots. He worked hard, saved his money, and bought property adjacent to his parents in rural West Olive. He started a small Christmas tree farm to help pay the taxes on his 20 acres.

Captivated by the fire towers of his youth, Jim had an interest in fire prevention. He was part of the formation of the Port Sheldon Volunteer Fire Department. The daughter of one of the other firefighters also captivated him, and she was to become his wife. He and Kathy married in July 1966. Within a short time, they built a house on his property and began a family.

Jim retired from S-2 Yachts in 1997. He was a member of Ottawa Reformed Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathy, in 2024, and his brother, Roy, in 1995.

He is survived by his children, Sarah (Glen) Huizenga and Craig (Tracy) Zoerner; grandchildren, Mallory Huizenga, Anna Zoerner and Evan Zoerner; brother, Tom (Martha) Zoerner; and sister, Janet Aalberts.

A celebration of life for Jim will be held in the spring.

Clyde Kinkema, 94

Clyde E. Kinkema, 94, of Holland, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025.

Clyde was born July 12, 1931, in Grand Haven, to Ferdinand and Tena (Jurries) Kinkema. He graduated from Grand Haven High School and later married Phyllis Poel. He served his country in the Korean Conflict from 1952-1954 as a U.S. Marine. 

Clyde worked in the aggregate business most of his career at Construction Aggregates and Howes and Howes. After retiring, he continued working for Howes and Howes as one of their representatives. Clyde and Phyllis raised their four children in Grand Haven before Phyllis died in 1986.

Clyde married Jeanne (DeJonge) Goodyke in 1990, and Clyde moved to Holland. Clyde joined Jeanne as a member of Holland Heights Christian Reformed Church. Clyde volunteered at both Youth for Christ and Ditto. 

In addition to being preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis, Clyde was also preceded in death by his daughter, Susan French; son-in-law, Jerry Pell; stepson, Steven Goodyke; sister and brother-in-law, Mary and George North; and in-laws, Elmer and Audrey De Jonge, Joyce Rottschafer and Vern Brummel.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Jeanne; Clyde’s children, Doug and Patty Kinkema, Nancy Pell, and Dale and Jill Kinkema; six grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; Jeanne’s children, David and Jeanne Goodyke, and Dawn Goodyke; her four grandchildren and one great-grandson; sister-in-law, Marcia Brummel; and many extended family and friends.

A funeral service with military honors was held Saturday, Dec. 20, at Holland Heights Christian Reformed Church, 836 E. 8th St., Holland. Interment was in Lake Forest Cemetery in Grand Haven. 

Memorials may be made to Holland Christian Schools, Zeeland Christian School, Grand Haven Christian School, and Hospice of Holland.

Patricia Schieringa, 91

Patricia Ann Schieringa, age 91, of Holland, passed away into the arms of Jesus Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Zeeland.

Patti was born in Wyandotte on Oct. 6, 1934, to the late Franklin and Jane Poling. She was a 1953 Muskegon High School graduate and received her bachelor of arts degree and teaching certificate from Hope College. She later received her master’s degree in education from Andrews University. 

Patti had her own nursery school in Holland called The Learning Center near the downtown tower clock, and later in Guam called Betty’s Learning Center. 

Patti was preceded in death by her husbands, Paul Schieringa and Harold Knoll, Jr.; adopted sons, Kurt and Kerry Knoll; son, David Harold Knoll; and special friend, Orrie Keyser.

Patti is survived by her children, Paul (Barbara) Knoll and Rochelle Knoll; and grandchildren, Deanna Knoll, Daniel Ridlington and Darryl Knoll.

A memorial service is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, at Fourteenth Street Christian Reformed Church, 14 W. 14th St., Holland, with Pastor Benj Petroelje officiating. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Compassion International.

My favorite Christmas movie is “It’s a Wonderful Life.” It’s a film about a man who momentarily forgets all his blessings. A series of setbacks and losses convince him that the world is unfair. If the world is ultimately unfair, then maybe life isn’t worth living. When life goes bad, it’s easy to forget that the world started out good, and that it will be good again.

By Ben Van Arragon

Read: Psalm 103
“Great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him.” (v. 11)

My favorite Christmas movie is “It’s a Wonderful Life.” It’s a film about a man who momentarily forgets all his blessings. A series of setbacks and losses convince him that the world is unfair. If the world is ultimately unfair, then maybe life isn’t worth living. When life goes bad, it’s easy to forget that the world started out good, and that it will be good again.

Psalm 103 is an invitation to remember that life with God is a wonderful life. The psalm lists the benefits of life with God—but they aren’t everyday benefits like food, shelter, family, friends, and meaningful work. The benefits the psalm lists are more abstract, even fantastical. According to Psalm 103, God forgives all your iniquity, heals your diseases, renews your youth like the eagle’s, redeems your life from the pit, works justice and righteousness for all the oppressed. 

The author of the psalm is not saying that God doesn’t care about the everyday blessings. It’s just that God is capable of so much more. In love, God promises to provide his people the basic necessities of life, but in the end, God also promises to make all of life right.

During the season of Advent, we bless God for all the ways he makes life wonderful right now. At the same time, we set our sights on the even greater blessings still to come. There are no limits to the good things God intends for those he loves.

As you pray, take time to name God’s many blessings—past, present, and future.

—————

Ben Van Arragon is an ordained minister in the Christian Reformed Church in North America. After 20 years of congregational ministry, he now serves his denomination as a pastor wellbeing consultant in Grand Rapids.

Jack A. Schrotenboer, 71, of Hamilton, died Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 at Corwell Health Butterworth Campus.

Jack Schrotenboer, 71

Jack A. Schrotenboer, 71, of Hamilton, died Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 at Corwell Health Butterworth Campus.

A memorial service will be 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, 2025 at Corner Bible Church, 4001 124th Ave., Allegan. Interment will be in Overisel Cemetery. 

Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 8 p.m. at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. 

Memorial contributions may be given to Love Inc. of NW Allegan County, loveincnwa.org.

Andrew McDonald, 77

Andrew McDonald, 77, passed away on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, after being diagnosed with glioblastoma in November 2023.

Andrew was born on May 3, 1948. He graduated with a bachelor of arts degree from Miami (Ohio) University and went on to work at Listenberger Design in Indianapolis. After moving to Michigan, he worked at Magna Donnelly Corporation in the marketing department as a senior 
designer, and then later on worked at FRC in Holland as a designer. He used his skill as a designer in his home as well as a master builder, often making major home improvements. 

Andrew’s first priority was family, but he also enjoyed playing golf, hockey, and soccer. and skiing. He was a quiet man who had a great amount of wisdom as well as a great sense of humor.

Andrew is survived by his wife of 48 years, Karen; children, Chad and Elaine McDonald, and Chris and Sarah Hayes; grandchildren, Emma, Sawyer and Olivia Hayes, and Peter, Caleb, Lucas and Julia McDonald; and siblings, Carole Hoyt, Alan McDonald, and Cindy McDonald.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, Dec. 21 at 3 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Zeeland, 246 W. Main Ave., Zeeland. Visitation will take place prior to the service from 2 to 3 p.m. at the church.

Dennis Wright, 75

Dennis D. Wright, 75, of West Olive, a father, grandfather, brother and uncle, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. 

Born on Aug. 12, 1950, in Holland, Dennis was the son of the late Virginia Dare and Kendrick Burr Wright. He dedicated 25 years of his professional life to MillerKnoll.

Dennis loved the outdoors and enjoyed woodworking and gardening.

He is survived by his sons, Kevin Richard Wright and Jeffery Kendrick Wright; granddaughter, Ava Rose; several brothers and sisters; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Consistent with his wishes, no public services are planned. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Holland, an organization that provides essential care and comfort.

Jay Van Daalen, 95

Jay Van Daalen, 95, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, at his home in Zeeland.

Jay was born Oct. 8, 1930, in Grand Rapids, to Adrian and Nelle Van Daalen. He was a graduate of Grand Rapids Christian High School and University of Michigan School of Business, graduating with a bachelor of business administration degree.

Jay proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War, stationed on the destroyer USS Southerland as its supply and dispersing officer.

After the Navy, he was active in the trucking industry. He was owner and chief executive officer of Keller Transfer Line, Capital Express, and ThermoKing Michigan, and was past chairman of the Michigan Trucking Association.

Jay served on many boards and nonprofits. He was previous chairman of Bethany Christian Services for seven years and co-founder of Wings of Mercy and Bibles for Mexico. He was an active private pilot with multi-engine rating.

Jay is survived by Adelle, his wife of 32 years; children, James M. Van Daalen, M.D. and Kim Greenwalt, Jane Janicki, and Jackie Van Daalen; stepchildren, Shannon Blauwkamp and Darla Morgan, Paige and John Weenum; sister, Judy and Frank Beltman; sister, Nancy (deceased) and Stuart Cok; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Nancy Bronson, Lori and Joe Marroquin and Larry Weenum; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. 

Jay was preceded in death by son, Jeffrey Van Daalen, and daughter, Julie Van Daalen.

A time to celebrate and remember Jay’s life with a time of food and fellowship will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the lower level at Second Reformed Church, 225 E. Central Ave, Zeeland. 

Memorial contributions may be given to Bethany Christian Services (Holland) and Wings of Mercy (Zeeland).

Patricia Conner, 85

Patricia Ann Conner, 85, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025. 

Born on July 18, 1940, Pat lived a life rooted in love, faith, and generosity. Her presence brought warmth to every room, and her quick wit, outgoing spirit, and adventurous heart made her unforgettable to all who knew her.

Pat was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Larry Conner; her son, Jeff Conner; her granddaughter, Jessica Conner; her parents, Bernice Roberts and Donald Clabaugh; and her sister, Donna Graves.

She is survived by her children, Tod (Tulip) Conner, Amy (Chris) Ambrose, and Beverly (David) Kimball; sister, Jean Butcher; 19 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, all of whom were the joys of her life.

Pat loved deeply and gave freely. She found purpose in helping others, offering a warm hug, a kind word, or a moment of encouragement to those who needed it most. Family was her heart, and her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and music. A gifted singer, she often lifted her voice in worship, sharing her faith and God’s promises with sincerity and joy. She was also an avid Detroit Tigers fan.

A funeral service was held Monday, Dec. 15, at Life Change Community Church, 4250 30th Ave., Dorr. Visitation was Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Interment was in Salem Township Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Life Change Community Church.

Janice Pegg, 84

Janice R. Pegg, 84, of Hamilton, passed away in her home on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, surrounded by family members. 

Born on Nov. 15, 1941, to Marvin and Genevieve Maatman, Janice lived her early years in North Holland. She graduated from Holland High School, and her primary occupation was mother and homemaker for her husband and children. She also worked as a secretary for Kiekover, Scholman & Shumaker for a number of years.

A devoted Christian, Janice was a member of Hamilton Reformed Church. She served as a Kids Hope USA Member and member of the Women’s Guild. She also served as a den mother/ leader for Cub Scouts USA. Janice loved to find hidden treasures at garage sales and was an avid collector of Longaberger Baskets. She channeled her creativity into ceramics and the creation of bracelets and scarves over the years.

Janice married her sweetheart, Harold Pegg on July 6, 1962. They were married 39 years before Harold passed away in 2001. Together they had two children, Scott (Brenda) Pegg of Jenison and Sondra White of Hamilton; four grandchildren, Jessica (Justin) Ketelaar, Joshua (Katie) Pegg, Nathaniel (Tori) White and Emily (Spencer) Jacobson; and 14 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind an older sister, Marianne Yonker, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Services will take place on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 11 a.m. at Hamilton Reformed Church, 3554 Lincoln Rd., Hamilton, with Rev. Kevin Hart officiating. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens, Holland.

Family visitation will take place on Friday, Dec. 19, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at Hamilton Reformed Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hamilton Reformed Church (General Fund) or Hospice of Holland.

Katheran Straight, 94

Katheran M. Straight, 94, of Zeeland, went to be with the Lord peacefully on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, at Riley’s Grove Assisted Living and Memory Care, with her family by her side.

Katheran was a member of First Baptist Church of Zeeland. She was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Ronald L. Straight, in 2021; and daughter, Teresa DeGeus, in 2020.

Katheran is survived by her daughters, Elaine (Keith) Day of Zeeland, Ronda (Chuck) Woldring of Holland, and Ruth (Mark) Edsall of Mission, Tex.; son-in-law, Mike DeGeus of Holland; grandchildren, Ronald Day, Christopher (Deidre) DeGeus, Ryan Day, Katheran (Alex) Westrate, Jenny (Mike) Walker, Rory Woldring, Anthony (Mindy) Day and Carly (Takuya) Mori; 16 great-grandchildren; sister, Carolyn (Walt) Nelson of Grand Rapids; and brother-in-law, Tom Odren.

Funeral services were held Sunday, Dec. 14, at First Baptist Church, 246 W. Main Ave., Zeeland, with Rev. Tom Vanden Berg officiating. Burial was in Zeeland Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church.

Cherrill Haver, 85

Cherrill Lynn Haver, 85, of Holland, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. 

Cherrill was born in Zeeland to Seburn “Cy” and Ruth Alida Sherman on Nov. 18, 1940. She went on to attend Asbury College, Hope College, and Davenport University until she married and had three girls.

Cherrill will be remembered for her creative ability to knit, crochet, sew, and quilt heirloom bedspreads for her children. She loved music and played organ and piano, college through 1990, at various churches and special events, like Christian Women’s Club (CWC). She was most content playing her favorite hymns. Also, singing alto with a traveling Christian trio during the 1980s.

Cherrill is survived by her daughters, Michelle Tonning and husband, Julian, Stacey Pattegar, and Sabrina Haverdink; three grandchildren, Kelly Grace, Julian Young “J.Y.” and Storm Jericho; sister, Dianne DeYoung and her three children. She was preceded in death by her parents.

She will be laid to rest beside her predeceased parents at a private graveside ceremony today at Graafschap Cemetery in Holland.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Resthaven Maple Woods staff who developed caring relationships with Cherrill, including Christine, Kenyatta, Leslie, Administrator Jill, and Nurse Maddie. Also, the life-preserving and loving staff of Hospice of Holland with Jacob, Deanna, Dr. Emery, Sara, Taylor, Marissa, and Sarah. With dignity and respect, you touched her heart and kept her well unto her last breath on earth.

Carolyn Palmer, 68

Carolyn Palmer, 68, of Zeeland, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.

Carolyn was born in Pope, Miss., on Aug. 27, 1957, to Carl Finch and Hattie (Kehoe) Finch. She graduated high school and later met William Palmer Sr. at a dance in Batesville, Miss. Bill had returned home to the U.S after serving as a Marine in Vietnam. In 1976, Carolyn and Bill married. 

In 1980, Carolyn and Bill moved to West Michigan and raised their two sons in Zeeland. Bill and Carolyn always worked hard, and both worked at Corlett-Turner for many years. Carolyn worked at Corlett-Turner from 1981 until 2025.

Carolyn and Bill were a great team. They worked together on everything, Carolyn often on thinking things through and Bill making it all happen. Carolyn and Bill were also generous and kind, they opened their home to anyone who needed a hand or a place to stay.

She is survived by her sons, William Palmer Jr. and Jeremy (Krista) Palmer; grandchildren, Alyssa Palmer, Zan Howerton, Dewey Palmer, Brody Palmer and Charlie Palmer; great-grandchild, Harleigh; siblings, Sissy, Mary, DeDe, Barbara, Joann, Vernon, Charles and Chet; in-laws, Willy Erwin, Chuck Erwin, Kathy Erwin, Jean Palmer and Peggy Rubino; and many extended family members. 

Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Bill Palmer, in September of 2025.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Interment was in Zeeland Cemetery (Felch Street Cemetery). 

December 21 will bring on the winter solstice this year. The longest night. Much of the annual ­Advent season is spent in the dark. Although there are debates around the actual birthdate of Jesus, observing Advent in the dark days of winter has been a practice since at least the 4th and 5th centuries.

By Traci Rhoades

December 21 will bring on the winter solstice this year. The longest night. Much of the annual ­Advent season is spent in the dark. Although there are debates around the actual birthdate of Jesus, observing Advent in the dark days of winter has been a practice since at least the 4th and 5th centuries.

These cold December mornings, I wake up, turn on a lamp, pour myself a hot drink, then settle in with a blanket and read about such things as shepherds keeping watch over their flock at night (a nod to Linus and his blue blanket in “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” perhaps the greatest film shepherd of all time). 

Advent wreaths light up our sanctuaries, and if you light one as a family at home, candles illuminate kitchen tables as well. By this time, Advent is in full swing for many of us.

It’s Barbara Brown Taylor who taught me the dark is not all bad. In the beginning, God created this new thing called light, but darkness already was, and it remained. It was given a name, night. Light and darkness, night separated from day. 

In her book, “Learning to Walk in the Dark,” Brown Taylor contends the dark can get a bad rep, both literally and metaphorically. Indeed, if we think about the various uses of this word, our eyes are opened (from darkness to light) to all the uses of dark and darkness we have in the English language. 

She’s not taking about darkness as those evil forces separated from God, battling for our souls. In ­addition to the necessity of darkness (nighttime), she makes a case for what St. John of the Cross called “the dark night of the soul,” when for whatever reason, God seems beyond our reach. 
There’s benefit in these times too.

Here are a few quotes from the book for your consideration:

“Our comfort or discomfort with the outer dark is a good barometer of how we feel about the inner kind.” 

“New life starts in the dark. Whether it is a seed in the ground, a baby in the womb, or Jesus in the tomb, it starts in the dark.”

“Instead, I have learned things in the dark that I could never have learned in the light, things that have saved my life over and over again, so that there is really only one logical conclusion. I need darkness as much as I need light.”

In her book, “Prayers in the Night,” Tish Harrison Warren points out, “We pray the church’s liturgical prayers at night — Compline — because they give us words when we don’t know what to say, and they give us better words to say than we might give.”

The more familiar I become with formal structures of the Church — things like the church calendar, liturgy, formal prayers and the revised common lectionary — I realize there are few if any coincidences. These spiritual forming activities didn’t come together happenstance. Patterned after Jewish practices introduced by God to shape the lives of his people by rhythms of worship, the Church offers us ways to forge our own connections with God.

So back to Advent, the season of waiting in the dark. The lyrics to the popular advent hymn, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” tell us the birth of the Christ child came in a season of mourning. ­Israel found themselves in captivity, lonely exiles longing for their Savior. Into this historically dark time under Roman rule, the Christ child appears.

In our time, during the long and dark winter nights, amidst so much divisiveness, anger and confusion, our souls cry out, “Come, Lord Jesus.” He comes to us still.

For Christians, this is our great hope. After all the waiting, season after season of darkness, God will come again, and he will make all things right. All glory and praise to Christ Jesus who has promised to come again. We read in Revelation 22:5: “And there will no longer be any night; and they will not have need of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, ­because the Lord God will illuminate them; and they will reign forever and ever” (NASB).

The world has never known a time without darkness. Imagine! What a new earth it will be ­indeed, with everything illuminated by the light of Jesus. Spend some time reflecting on that in the early morning hours, while it is still dark, as you read your Advent reflections.

—————

Traci Rhoades is an author and Bible teacher who lives with her husband and daughter in West Michigan. She has written two books, “Not All Who Wander (Spiritually) Are Lost,” and “Shaky Ground: What To Do When The Bottom Drops Out.”

For many, Christmas is a season of profound loneliness. In any given community, there are people who have few friends, have lost (or are estranged from) their parents or children, or who have no community available to them. 

By Ben Van Arragon

Read: Isaiah 54:1-10
“Your Maker is your husband.” (v. 5)

For many, Christmas is a season of profound loneliness. In any given community, there are people who have few friends, have lost (or are estranged from) their parents or children, or who have no community available to them. 

Maybe that’s the way you feel. When it seems like everyone else is celebrating with loved ones, otherwise tolerable loneliness can feel unbearable.

The book of Isaiah was written for God’s people during a season of great loneliness: the exile in Babylon. During the Babylonian invasion, nearly every household in Israel lost someone. In the exile, the nation was torn apart, families were separated, and an entire population was ripped from its home. Like a grieving, childless widow, Israel felt abandoned and unloved. 

But they weren’t alone. Through the prophet Isaiah, God ­declares his khesed, his unbreakable love for his people. God calls himself Israel’s “husband” — their faithful covenant protector and provider. God promises to give back immeasurably more than ­Israel lost.

God does not promise to protect us from the pain and loss of life in this broken world. However, he does promise three things: he promises to be with us in our pain; he promises to return and complete his saving work; and he promises, in the end, to give us immeasurably more than whatever we lost in this life (Rom. 8:18). 

If during the upcoming season you feel lonely, remember: your maker is your faithful protector, provider, and partner. God is your first love, and he will never leave you.

As you pray, remember that you are never alone.

—————

Ben Van Arragon is an ordained minister in the Christian ­Reformed Church in North America. After 20 years of congregational ministry, he now serves his denomination as a pastor wellbeing consultant in Grand Rapids.

Steve A. Smallegan, 67, passed away Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, after a two-year battle with cancer.

Steven Smallegan, 67

Steve A. Smallegan, 67, passed away Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, after a two-year battle with cancer.

He was born to Philip (deceased) and Dorothy Smallegan and raised in Forest Grove with his brother David (Shannon) Smallegan. Steve graduated from Hudsonville High School in 1976 and Hope College in 1980. 

Steve pursued seminary studies at Western Theological Seminary in Holland and the University of Saint Andrews in Scotland before completing his master of divinity at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, Calif. in 1983. That same year, he was ordained and began a ministry that spanned more than four decades. Along the way, he also earned his doctorate of ministry from Asbury Seminary in Wilmore, Ky.

Steve served faithfully in the Reformed Church in America, beginning as assistant chaplain at Hope College in Holland (1983-1984). He then pastored Nooksack Valley Reformed Church in Nooksack, Wash. (1985-1990), and Westwood Reformed Church in Muskegon (1990-1998). He served in a denominational position as the Zeeland Classic minister (1998-2014). After interim ministry at First Reformed Church in Oostburg, Wis. (2015-2016), Steve concluded his pastoral calling at Hope Church in South Haven (2016-2024).

His heart for ministry extended beyond the pulpit. As a young man, he spent three summers serving on the Camp Geneva staff and later returned for 35 years as chaplain. He also mentored children through Kids Hope USA for 30 years. 

Steve celebrated nearly 42 years of marriage with his loving wife, Brenda (Bakker). Together they raised four daughters: Laura (Nate) Hinkle, Hannah (Jon) Haeffele, Lydia (Andrew) Loveland, and Maria (Owen) Brookhouse. He was a proud papa to Ezra, Jeremiah, Noah, Theodore, Naomi, and Ellis.

Visitation will be held from 12 noon to 2 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. today at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be at 12 noon on Saturday, Dec. 13, at Hope Reformed Church, 1365 Monroe Blvd., South Haven.

Memorial gifts may be made to Camp Geneva, a ministry close to his heart at campgeneva.org/ give/ or by mail to 3995 Lakeshore Dr. N., Holland, MI 49424.

Burial to take place in Forest Grove Cemetery.

Matthew Gerig, 50

Matthew Scott Gerig, 50, of West Olive, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. 

Born on May 28, 1975, Matt brought compassion, humor, and resilience to every chapter of his life.

In 1996, a car accident left Matt paralyzed — an event that dramatically changed the course of his life but never dimmed his spirit. Despite the physical challenges and ongoing health issues he faced, Matt refused to let adversity define him. His positivity, courage, and deep love for his family and close friends became a source of strength for everyone around him. He had a remarkable ability to bring people together, offering warmth, perspective, and a sense of gratitude that inspired all who knew him.

He is survived by his parents, Doyle and Linda Gerig; brothers, Grant (Michelle) Gerig and Todd (Tammy) Gerig; and sister, Jo Ellen (Dave) Strey. Matt was a deeply proud and loving uncle who treasured every moment with his nieces and nephews: Addyson and Easton Gerig; Gillian, Natalie, and Sophia Gerig; Olivia, Logan, Claire, Mason, Rae, and Lucy Strey; as well as Tara Bartee. 

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 12, at Holland Church of Christ, 405 Beeline Rd., Holland. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. today, also at the church. 

Memorial contributions may be given to Camp Sunshine.

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

Bernd Pastunink, 91

Bernd Pastunink, 91, of Holland, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025. 

Born on March 15, 1934, in Bad Bentheim, Germany, Bernd moved to the United States with his beloved wife, Gesine, whom he married in 1958. Together, they had six children and spent nearly 50 years together before Gesine’s passing in 2007. 

Known for his hard work and dedication, Bernd was a disciplinarian as his children grew up. He had a passion for tinkering and fixing cars and was a jokester who loved to bring joy to those around him. Later in life, he enjoyed traveling, particularly to Texas and Alaska. Bernd was a long-time member of Christ Memorial Church.

Bernd is survived by his daughters, Mary (Tim) Steinbeck, Brenda (Gregg) Stoel, Joyce Stich, and Karen (Troy) Bush; son, Harv (Sue) Pastunink; daughter-in-law, Kristi Pastunink; 19 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Gesine; son, John Pastunink; and son-in-law, Joe Stich. 

Funeral services were held on Monday, Dec. 8 at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland.

Karen Bables, 83

Karen Bables, 83, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, after a long battle with multiple myeloma. 

Born on Oct. 4, 1942, Karen grew up in Holland and graduated from Holland High School in 1960. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in English from Hope College in 1964. She then began teaching English at Jenison Junior High while earning a master’s degree in English Language and Literature from Western Michigan University in 1967.

Karen began her professional life teaching teenagers, but she soon discovered that her passion lay in teaching adults. She loved to tutor adult learners. Realizing the need was broader than she could meet on her own, she founded the Family Literacy Center, dedicated to helping working adults improve their lives by learning to read, and led the center from 1984 to 1997. 

As a freelance writer, she was an assistant editor for the Church Herald and contributed devotionals for Words of Hope, both publications of the Reformed Church in America. Later, she created the blog Living as Apprentices of Jesus and wrote the blog from 2012 to 2024, when she entrusted it to a close friend.

Both personally and professionally, Karen dedicated her life to serving others. Professionally, she served as the assistant director of the Good Samaritan Center in Holland as well as the senior manager for the Michigan Chapter of the National MS Society. Personally, she was a passionate advocate for global causes. 

Karen’s deep faith shaped her life. She studied Spiritual Formation at Spring Arbor University and became the Spiritual Formation Director at Christ Memorial Church, where she served from 2009 to 2014. Her bookshelves, housing hundreds of books on spiritual formation and discipleship, testified to her passion for a faith informed by both experience and intellect.

She is survived by her two sons, Kelly and Ryan; their wives, Laura and Leanne; and grandchildren, Lauryn, Jenna, Nathaniel, Rachel, and Emily. 

There will be a celebration of life in early January, with details pending.

Charlene Burrell, 79

Charlene Joyce Burrell, 79, of Zeeland, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, at home.

Charlene attended Holland Gospel Chapel where she taught Sunday School for 25 years. She was a teacher/trainer with the Child Evangelism Fellowship. Charlene lovingly nurtured children in her childcare program for more 20 years.

Charlene enjoyed flower gardening and meticulously tended to each of her beautiful plants. She was skilled in handcrafts such as her favorite pastime, embroidery. She was also an avid reader.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Pearl (Northrup) Sylvia; son, Spencer Burrell; three sisters and a brother.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Robert; children, Lawrene (James) Nemire of Allegan, Rebecca (Ken) Vincent of Zeeland, and Alex (Abby) Burrell of Allegan; grandchildren, Brandy (Ben) Parkhurst, Duncan Vance, Titus, Caleb, Luke, Joel, Quinton, and Ryan Burrell; great-grandchildren, Daniel and Noah Parkhurst; brother, Charles (Shirley) Sylvia of Batavia, N.Y.; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral service will be 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 12, at Dykstra Funeral Homes – Mulder Chapel, 188 W. 32nd St., Holland, with Mike Fitzhugh and Bob Fouts presiding. Burial will be in Graafschap Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. tonight at Dykstra Funeral Homes – Mulder Chapel. 

Memorial contributions may be given to the Right to Life Holland Area, 607 Heritage Ct., Holland, MI 49423 or the Holland Gospel Chapel, 106 W. 26th St., Holland, MI 49423.

Susan Cook, 68

Susan Joy Cook, 68, of Zeeland, passed away on Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, following a six-year battle with mesothelioma.

Susan was born April 4, 1957, in Zeeland, to Thomas and Betty (Lucas) De Haan. She graduated from Holland Christian High School in 1975. Later in 1975, she met the love of her life, John Cook, in Saugatuck, and they married in October 1976. 

Susan and John raised their two children in Zeeland, and they are members of Second Reformed Church. Susan enjoyed singing and was a longtime SRC choir member. 

Susan also loved horses and kept her own for many years. She was a talented stained-glass artist. Always busy and a hard worker, Susan worked many places over her career: Teerman’s, Howard Miller, Don’s Flowers, Zeeland Community Hospital, and Herman Miller.

Susan is survived by her husband of 49 years, John; daughter, Linda Cook and Brian Donakowski; son, John Jr. and Elizabeth Schut; grandchildren, Griffin Thomas Donakowski, Amelie Paige Donakowski, Andrew John Cook and James Pennington Cook; siblings, Nancy Harkema, Gerry De Haan, Kristi and Henry Conde; in-laws, Rick and Laurie Cook, Cami and Paul Phillips; many extended family members and friends. 

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, and her sister, Jane De Haan, in 1971.

A memorial service was held Saturday, Dec. 6, at Second Reformed Church, 225 E. Central Ave., Zeeland. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Corewell Hospice.

Marian Van Ry, 95

Marian Joyce Van Ry, 95 passed away on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025 at home attended by her children and hospice care. 

She was born the third daughter to Budd and Sue Eastman on Dec. 8, 1929 in Holland. She­ ­attended Hope College and worked locally as an office manager in a bank, until her marriage to Donald Van Ry in 1954. They were married 67 years. Together they raised their family in Holland and remained after Don’s retirement from Mazda Corporation.

Marian had a great love of family and enjoyed a lifetime of musical interest. She sang in church choir and performed solos, sang for friends and family at weddings and receptions. She studied voice as a student of the late Julliard-trained Beulah Dunwoody. In her seventies she sang in the “Remember When” choir at Evergreen Commons and performed in their Tulip Time programs for 6 years. Upon marriage to Don, Marian left the Methodist Church to join the Reformed Church, sang in their choir, taught Sunday School and was active in women’s groups and committees. She worked for Hope College in the 1970s and 1980s.

Marian loved gardening and flowers. She also sewed for her family, making household decor, clothing, and her children’s Dutch costumes. In later years she enjoyed working crossword and variety puzzles. 

Marian is survived by her children, Susan Huey, James Van Ry and Laura Van Ry; brother, Michael Eastman; several nieces and nephews and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Don; son-in-law, Michael Huey; siblings, Jenny Oisten, Lois Mitchell, Donna Dreyer, Thomas Eastman, Robert Eastman, and Stephen Eastman; in-laws, Joyce Van Ry, Bob Van Ry, Mary Lou Van Ry, Cheryl Eastman, Joseph Mitchell, John Dreyer, Robert Oisten, and three nephews.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18 at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland.