Columns

Milton Jay Jongekryg, 82,

Milton Jongekryg, 82

Milton Jay Jongekryg, 82, of Holland, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2026. 

Born on June 26, 1944, Milt was the son of Minser and Emily Jongekryg. Milt’s life was richly centered on home and family. He was the father of four children: Kevin Jongekryg, Renee (Jongekryg) McCranie, Jim Jongekryg, and Tanya (Jongekryg) Soto. 

On Sept. 19, 1984, he married Kathy Marie Kiekover, and through that marriage his family grew to include Kendall Kiekover, Amy (Kiekover) Camfferman, Tracy (Kiekover) Streiff, and Travis Kiekover.

A man of unwavering faith, lived his beliefs through quiet service and genuine compassion for others. He was a faithful member of his church and a steadfast source of encouragement to those around him. His life reflected the values he cherished — humility, generosity, integrity, and love.

Above all else, Milt was a devoted family man. He shared a loving marriage with his beloved wife of 42 years, Kathy, building a life grounded in faith, commitment, and unconditional love. He was a proud father who led by example, teaching the values of hard work, honesty, kindness, and respect. His greatest joy came from spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

For many years, he stood behind the barber chair of Milt’s Barber Shop in downtown Zeeland, where he was much more than a barber. He was a trusted friend, a patient listener, a source of wisdom, and a familiar face whose warm smile welcomed generations of customers through his door. His barbershop was not simply a place for haircuts, it was a gathering place where stories were shared, friendships were formed, and neighbors became family.

Milt was preceded in death by his wife, Kathy; parents, Minser and Emily Jongekryg; brother, Edwin Jongekryg; sister, Helene (Jongekryg) Snyder; and daughter, Tanya Soto.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 20 at 1 p.m. at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland, with visitation prior to the service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Graveside will be family only.

Ngu Thi Ho, 88

Ngu Thi Ho, 88, of Holland, died Sunday, July 12, 2026.

Ngu was born in Phan Thiet, Vietnam, on July 15, 1937. She married De Tanh Nguyen. De Tanh Nguyen became a university professor and Ngu raised their seven children and was a businesswoman. In November 1989, the entire family immigrated to West Michigan. De preceded Ngu in death in 2009.

She is survived by her children: Aitho, Thao, Aithuan, Thanh, Aithoa, Aithuy, Aithanh, many grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, and many extended family members in Vietnam.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, July 17 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 480 152nd Ave., Holland. Visitation will be today from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Kris Michmerhuizen, 82

Kris Michmerhuizen, 82, of Holland, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Friday, July 10, 2026.

Kris graduated from Holland Christian High School and Calvin College with a degree in elementary education. She taught at Rose Park Christian School for a short time and then stayed at home to raise her family. 

Kris was a longtime member of North Street Christian Reformed Church; she was very involved with ministry inside and outside the church. Music was a big part of Kris’ life; she played the flute in the American Legion Band and was accompanied by Marie Blauwkamp in the “Ivory and Silver Duo” ministering in nursing homes and churches.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Max; children, Mark and Tammy Michmerhuizen, Matthew and Indirah Michmerhuizen, Michael and Laura Michmerhuizen, and Stephen and Julie Michmerhuizen, grandchildren and great-grandchildren Nicole and Clarence Pascual (Josiah and Madison), Anna Michmerhuizen, Seth Michmerhuizen, Luke Michmerhuizen, Marielle Michmerhuizen, Ivan Michmerhuizen, Siobhan Michmerhuizen, Evan Michmerhuizen, Mallory Michmerhuizen, Michael Michmerhuizen, Benjamin Michmerhuizen, Kristen Michmerhuizen, Micah Michmerhuizen, and Susanna Michmerhuizen; siblings, Mary and Donald Swierenga, and John and Cindy Vogelzang; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Lila Peters, Lillian Vanden Heuvel, Paul and Kathi Michmerhuizen, and Janet and Bruce Davis.

The funeral service to honor the life of Kris was held Monday, July 13 at North Street Christian Reformed Church, 20 E. Main Ave., Zeeland. Interment was in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be given to the Blaise Pascal Endowment Fund at Holland Christian Schools.

Tommy Jones, 78

Tommy Rance Jones, 78, of West Olive, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 9, 2026.

Born April 4, 1948, Tommy was a longtime member of Ventura Baptist Church. He held close the words that shaped his faith and outlook, often returning to his favorite biblical phrase: “In the beginning God...” In that steady conviction, many knew a man grounded in reverence and purpose.

Tommy built a life marked by dedication and skill. He worked at BLD Products for 25 years, serving as lead electrical design technician, and brought to his work both careful precision and quiet reliability. He also earned an associate’s degree in electrical engineering, reflecting a disciplined mind and a lifelong respect for learning.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Rance and June Jones.

Tommy is survived by his wife of 52 years, Bonnie Jones; children, Diana (Gerin) Woodbury, Daniel (Valerie) Jones and Christina (Clay) Ashby; grandchildren, Aidan (Sarah) Woodbury, Raze Woodbury, Kaylee Ashby, Alder Jones and Tilia Jones; and aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral services were held Monday, July 14 at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland.

Donations can be sent to The Gideons International.

Kraig Schaafsma, 70

Kraig Schaafsma, 70, of Holland, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. 

Kraig was born on Oct. 29, 1955, and was married to his wife, Nancy, for the last 50 years. They were married on June 11, 1976, and the family had just celebrated together the previous Sunday. 

Kraig retired in 2020 following a career as a tool engineer. After retirement, he enjoyed working at Vandenberg Stereo. He also treasured time spent with family at the cottage up north, and vacations with friends where he spent days under the Palapa.

Kraig was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Wilma Schaafsma; sister, Kaylene Johnson;  mother- and father-in-law, Everett and Julia Plooster; and brothers-in-law, Jim Plooster, Bob Plooster and Ed Bredeweg.

Kraig is survived by his wife of 50 years, Nancy Schaafsma; son, Michael (Kylea) Schaafsma, and their children, Jaiden and Alex; daughter, Julie (Josh) Miles, and their daughters, Everlyn, Isabel, and Peyton; his twin brother, Kurt (Lynn) Schaafsma; sister, Sue (David) Brondyke; sisters-in-law, Bonnie (Dave) Vandermeer, Sally Bredeweg, Sharon Plooster, and Joanne Plooster; brother-in-law, Ron Johnson; along with many nieces and nephews, and many close friends.

A memorial service will be held today at 11 a.m. at Ridge Point Community Church, 340 104th Ave., Holland, with visitation prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m. 

Family would like donations to send a kid to Camp Geneva at campgeneva.campbraingiving.com.

Ronald Vos, 86

Ronald Allen Vos, 86, of Holland, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

Born on Feb. 26, 1940, to Albert and Ruth Vos, Ron was a man of unwavering faith, attending both Overisel and North Street Christian Reformed Church. He graduated from Zeeland High School and served his country in the U.S. Army. 

The Lord blessed him with many talents, one being able to create and build anything out of wood. He was also extremely gifted in the lost art of hand carving wood. He was employed by Baker Furniture and Herman Miller.

Ron was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marianne, in 2024, and in-laws, George and Leona DenBesten, and Audrey DenBesten. 

Ron is survived by his daughters, Linnea and Loren Hop, Kerri and Doug Geerlings, and Connie Vos; grandchildren, Rachel (Jake) Vander Wall, Luke (Lettie) Hop, April Hop, Katelyn (Evan) Machiela, Allyson Geerlings (Matt Wilde) and Meghan Geerlings; in-laws, Calvin (Ardith) DenBesten and Garry (Lynne) DenBesten; as well as extended family and friends.

Funeral services will take place Monday, July 20 at 11 a.m. at North Street Christian Reformed Church, 20 E. Main Ave. Zeeland. Visitation with the Vos family will be Sunday, July 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Ron's family kindly requests memorial contributions to Hospice of Holland. 

Milton Krugman, 88

Milton Lester (Pete) Krugman, 88, of Grand Rapids, went to be with the Lord on Friday, July 3, 2026. 

Pete was born on Feb. 18, 1938, in Watervliet to Walter and Neva (Kimball) Krugman. As a child, Pete grew up on a fruit farm and enjoyed being outdoors while helping on the farm with his two siblings. 

After graduating from Watervliet High School in 1956, Pete enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for four years from 1957-1961. Pete was part of the crew in Squadron VW-1, based in Guam, serving as an electronics crew chief. He flew on Super Constellations that were equipped to identify and analyze enemy offensive and defensive weapons, as well as weapons-delivery systems. 

Pete had a lifelong passion for aviation, and he earned both his private pilot license and his helicopter license after his military service.

Pete was married to his wife, Susan Ann Sponable, for 62 years. They both had hearts devoted to serving others in ministry, sharing the gospel and leading many to faith. Pete graduated from Grand Rapids School of the Bible and Music in 1966 and served as a pastor in several Bible churches in Michigan and Texas during his 20-year career in ministry.

Pete is survived by his brother, Noble Krugman; sister, Shirley (Allen) Fietz; son, John (Candace) Krugman; daughters, Melissa (Jim) Webb and Stacia Givens, grandchildren, Daniel (Megan) Webb, Kristin (Geoff) DeLaune, Cortney Krugman, Caleb Krugman, Jackson Webb, and Savanna Webb; four great-grandchildren; and several beloved brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Neva (Kimball) Krugman; his wife, Susan (Sponable) Krugman; and his parents-in-law, Robert and Avis (Miles) Sponable.

A private family graveside service will take place prior to his Celebration of Life service at Ada Bible Church - Knapp Street Campus, 3869 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 30. Visitation and a light lunch with the family will follow the service. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Daily Bread Ministries. The Krugman family is being served by Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

Marcia Idema, 67

Marcia "Marcy" Ann Idema, 67, of Zeeland, entered into the arms of Jesus on Monday, July 6, 2026. 

Marcy's grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she would support them in all their activities. She had a way of making the holidays feel so special. 

Marcy was preceded in death by her first husband, Stewart Vander Laan; and parents, Robert Mabee and Laura DeVos. 

Marcy is survived by her husband, Jim; children, Andrea Lavigne, Ryan Furniss, Laura (Judah) Anderson and Richard Idema; grandchildren, Selah, Aviah, Tirzah, Zadok, Mirah, Havilah, Abigail, and Asher Anderson, Benjamin, and Rylee Furniss, Jacob, and Nicholas Lavigne; father-in-law, Kenneth Idema; and mother-in-law, Sharon Siemen. 

Funeral services were held Thursday, July 9 at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St. SE, Grand Rapids, with Pastor Calvin Bergsma officiating. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery.

Life can be wonderful. But at times it can also be painful and difficult. Natural disasters, civil unrest, relationship failures, and illnesses are just some of the difficulties we may experience.

By Rich Bawinkel

Read: Exodus 3:7-17
“… a land flowing with milk and honey.” (vv. 8, 17)

Life can be wonderful. But at times it can also be painful and difficult. Natural disasters, civil unrest, relationship failures, and illnesses are just some of the difficulties we may experience.

The people of Israel knew pain and difficulties. In Exodus 3, they cried out to God because they were suffering as slaves under the Egyptians. God heard their cries. He had a plan to deliver the Israelites, to bring them to a “good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey” (v. 8). What hope must have filled the people when they learned about this “promised land.”

As we face the pain and difficulties of life, do we who trust in Jesus have a promised land — a good land flowing with milk and honey? We do! In John 14:2, Jesus tells us, “In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?” 

We have the promise of heaven — and ultimately, when Jesus comes again, the promised land of the new heaven and earth (1 Peter 1:10-13)! And so we sing:

            “On Jordan’s stormy banks [this earth] I stand,
            and cast a wishful eye
            To Canaan’s fair and happy land [heaven],
            where my possessions lie.
            I am bound for the promised land,
            I am bound for the promised land;
            O who will come and go with me?
            I am bound for the promised land.”
                        (“On Jordan’s Stormy Banks I Stand”)

As you pray, remember those who are facing painful challenges.

—————

Rich Bawinkel is a retired pastor who has served churches in the Reformed Church in America and the Kingdom Network. He serves as the administrator of the Kingdom Network and on the Words of Hope board of directors.

I am a sports fan. I don’t watch much television, but when I do, it’s normally around some sporting event. During the past few weeks, it’s been golf majors and some WNBA. 

(Ed. Note: The following was written prior to the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team loss to Belgium on July 6.)

By Gary Miller

I am a sports fan. I don’t watch much television, but when I do, it’s normally around some sporting event. During the past few weeks, it’s been golf majors and some WNBA. 

And then there’s also the largest sporting event in the world. The FIFA World Cup. International football. Or what Americans call soccer. 

And while I’m not a big soccer fan, I have found myself following this tournament, mainly because this year’s event is in the United States. This tournament only happens every four years, and this year’s event will include 48 teams from all over the world. Over one billion people will be watching, worldwide. At this writing, America has made it to the round of 16. Go USA! 

What has gripped me more than anything else, however, is how all our foreign guests keep going on with the hospitality of our people. Whether they are talking about the people in Dallas, Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Kansas City, or the 12 other host cities, the common theme is that they could not believe how friendly, accommodating, and helpful Americans have been. They almost always follow those glowing comments by saying, "That's not what our leaders and media led us to believe." And many of these people described the U.S. as a more friendly and welcoming place than their own country. 

They felt what I believe most Americans do very naturally. Love other people. Now we may not call it love. But that is how our actions were interpreted. And because we did what comes naturally, our neighbors were drawn to us. Even the players from Iran, despite the tensions between our nations, left a handwritten note to the people of Los Angeles thanking the city for its hospitality and expressing a desire for peace and respect among nations. 

All of this has not only been amazing to me but has given me so much to think about. One thing I think about is that most of the common people in every country want to live in harmony with others. I think this is inherent because we are all made in the Image of God. 

Another thing worth remembering is that nearly all media are in the business for profit. And there is nothing wrong with profiting. But we all have to realize that our major news sources tend to report on what has the greatest potential to make them a profit. 

And then there are the governments — each one made up of people who are often driven by power and personal prosperity, unlike the Jills and Joes who live under their reign. 

But of all the images that came to mind, the most compelling was the one that led me to the words of Jesus. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” 

I can’t correct every false view of my faith that someone here or even in another country might promote. I can’t always explain my beliefs so that others can understand. I can’t always defend against those who use Christianity as a tool for power or prosperity. 

But I can, by my actions, love the people God chooses to bring into my life, whether they are with me for a lifetime or just a moment. And if I do that, perhaps they’ll leave saying that the ways of Jesus and His followers were not what they thought them to be. They’re better. 

—————

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@ outdoortruths.org.

Just before sunrise on July 4, 2026, Roger Steigenga of Zeeland, 85, declared his independence from earthly restraints and entered his heavenly Father’s freedom with a fully restored body and mind.

Roger Steigenga, 85

Just before sunrise on July 4, 2026, Roger Steigenga of Zeeland, 85, declared his independence from earthly restraints and entered his heavenly Father’s freedom with a fully restored body and mind.

Roger Wayne Steigenga was born at home in Borculo to James and Jeanette Steigenga on Oct. 29, 1940. 

As a grade schooler, Roger attended the local District 5 Schoolhouse where his love of learning and adventure were ignited by teacher Mildred Plasman who inspired her students with Friday slide shows of American national parks. Rog entered Holland Christian High School where he met his future wife, Marcia Seinen, when she was seated alphabetically next to him in study hall. 

Further developing that love of learning, Roger received his undergraduate degree in elementary education from Calvin College and his master’s degree from Michigan State University. Roger and Marcia were married at Zeeland’s First Christian Reformed Church in August 1962, where they were lifelong active members.

Roger taught for a total of 37 years at Christian schools in Indiana and Michigan as well as the bulk of his career as a sixth-grade teacher for Zeeland Public Schools. Known for his humor and stories, Mr. Steigenga impacted students in memorable ways, including comically ripping off his toupee to illustrate how students made him “pull his hair out” and annually tap dancing on his desk to celebrate the end of the school year. 

Although Mr. Steigenga could be hilarious, he was also deeply compassionate. Empathy marked his classroom where all types of learners were enfolded. At the students’ request, he was regularly invited on special education field trips. The echoing influence of Rog’s teaching is carried on through his daughter and grandson, who also became educators.

Outside the classroom, Roger enjoyed many hobbies including traveling and tinkering at his pole barn in Borculo which was built on his parents’ farmland. Roger and Marcia visited all 50 states, including regular summer outings to beloved state parks throughout Michigan, and 12 foreign countries.

Rog was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Jeanette Steigenga; sister, Jane Bickert; sister-in-law, Viv Steigenga; and brother, Ray. He is survived by his “beloved bride” of nearly 64 years, Marcia; children, Matthew (Marybeth) Steigenga and Rachel (Mark) Westra; siblings, Joyce Steigenga, Dave (Rose) Bickert and Norm (Cindy) Steigenga; grandchildren, Andrew, Daniel, and Elisabeth Steigenga, Sam and Eli Westra; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. today at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. 

Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Holland Christian, Hospice of Holland, or South Christian High School.

Jerry Brower, 82

Jerry Lee Brower, 82, of Zeeland, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Friday, July 3, 2026, surrounded by his wife and family.

Jerry graduated from Holland Christian High School. He was a man of faith and attended Niekerk Christian Reformed Church his entire life. He served the church as an elder, Sunday school teacher, and cadet leader. He also served as a Gideon for many years. 

Jerry loved building things and worked at Chris-Craft and Slickcraft building boats, and then transitioned to building homes and barns for many years. He loved helping others and really enjoyed his time serving on the Royal Park condo board and helping out fellow condo owners on small projects. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Juliet Brower, and his twin brother, Larry Brower. Also preceding him in death were his in-laws, Martin and Betty Brinks; brother in-law, Lee Karsten; sisters-in-law, Judy Brinks and Marcia Brinks; and nephew, Steve Karsten. 

Jerry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Elaine (Brinks); sons, Curt (Marcy) Brower, Doug (Bonnie) Brower, Brian (Shelly) Brower, and Craig (Dana) Brower; 17 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren with another one on the way.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. today at Niekerk Christian Reformed Church, 545 Country Club Rd., Holland. A private family graveside and burial will be at Holland East Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Gideons or Faith Hospice.

The family wishes to thank Heritage Nursing staff for the wonderful care they extended to Jerry.

Doris Vander Kooi, 98

Doris Vander Kooi, 98, passed away on July 2, 2026. 

Born on July 9, 1927, in the Holland area, Doris was the daughter of Nicklaus and Anna Kolean, and she spent most of her life in the area she called home. 

After high school, Doris attended nursing school and graduated with her nursing license. She went on to spend much of her nursing career caring for patients as an OBGYN nurse, a role she held with deep commitment and lasting pride. 

Doris met her husband, Elias Vander Kooi, through a blind date. They dated for five years before getting engaged, and in 1950 the pair were married. Together they welcomed six children into the world. 

After the tragic loss of their daughter, Linda Devore, Doris and Elias took in her children and helped raise them the best they could, offering stability, care, and love when it was needed most. In November 2003, Doris lost her husband of 53 years, a sorrow that lingered and was felt for a long time.

Faith was central to Doris’s life. Those who knew Doris knew that she loved her faith, and she was often found with books all around her — everything from the Bible to her current reading. She was deeply involved in Fellowship Reformed Church as one of the founding members. Doris and her family were the ones that originally picked the name for the church, and her devotion was woven into its earliest days: Doris handmade the first communion cloth used at the church, and Elias made the first pulpit. Her voice also became part of the church’s life, as she loved to sing and was part of the church choir for quite some time.

Doris was preceded in death by her husband, Elias Vander Kooi; children, Deb Berghorst, Steven Vander Kooi, and Linda Devore; and parents, Nicklaus and Anna Kolean.

Doris is survived by her children, Paul (Lugene) Vander Kooi, Jon (Linda) Vander Kooi, and Joan (Bill) Agre; grandchildren, Chrys (Leon) Hedding, Rebecca Vander Kooi, Tobias Westenbroek, Anna (Fred) Arbogast, Tamara Devore, Osceola Devore, Deanna Vander Kooi, and Daniel Vander Kooi; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. today at Fellowship Reformed Church, 2165 W. Lakewood Blvd., Holland. Interment will take place at Zeeland Cemetery.

Betty Kroeze, 88

Betty Ann Kroeze, 88, of Holland, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

Betty was a strong and devoted woman of faith and was a member of Bentheim Reformed Church.

Betty was born on June 17, 1938, to Arthur and Anna Lemmen and was raised in the East Saugatuck area. She retired from Magna/Donnelly in Holland. She loved traveling by road and air. When at home, she enjoyed watching the birds out her window, game shows, and the Tigers on TV. 

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Gene Lynema and Jasper (Jack) Kroeze Sr.; eight siblings; son, Ron Lynema; and stepson, Curt Kroeze.

Betty is survived by her children, Linda and Jeff DeBoer, Allen and Sharon Lynema, and Todd and Pamela Lynema; daughter-in-law, Terri Lynema; 15 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; sister, Arlene Herweyer; brothers-in-law, Richard Kalmbaugh and David Barnett; in-laws, Mary Verburg, Melvin and Sandy Lynema, JoAnn Kiger and Karen Overweg Lynema; stepchildren, Cal and Jill Kroeze, Larry and Jackie Kroeze, Jack Kroeze Jr., Nancy and Phil Dannenberg, Kevin and Debbie Kroeze, Lynda and Mike Drost, Sally and Craig Hoeze, Janet Kroeze and Dan Kroeze.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, July 7 at Bentheim Reformed Church, 3997 38th St., Hamilton, with Pastor Kris Popovitch officiating. Burial took place in Bentheim Cemetery.

Alvin Masselink, 83

Alvin Wayne Masselink, 83, of Holland, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease

Al was born July 22, 1942 in Blendon Township. Even through his struggles, Al never complained and always put others first, especially his family. He was a man of unwavering faith, gentle and caring, a great listener, and someone who quietly served those around him with love and compassion.

Al is survived by his wife of 59 years, Barbara Masselink; children, Dave and DuAnne Masselink (their children: Samantha, Brett, and Jersey; great-grandchildren: Tia and Jaymison), Dwayne and Deborah Masselink (their children: Austin, Peyton, and Sawyer), Darin and Kellie Masselink, and Denice and Scott Burgess (their children: Alexa, Carson, Davis and Lucy). He is also survived by his siblings, Judy and Gary Boetsma, and Harley and Carol Masselink.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Dorothy Masselink; and his in-laws, Henry and Jennie Fleser.

A memorial service was held on Thursday, July 2 at Christ ­Memorial Church, 595 Graafschap Rd., Holland, with Rev. Bill Boersma officiating. Burial was in Graafschap Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christ Memorial Church, Faith Hospice Circle of Faith, or Samaritan’s Purse.

Jacquelyn Swanezy, 75

Jacquelyn Rae Stegeman Swanezy, 75, of Holland, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 27, 2026 after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease.

Born on March 10, 1951 in Zeeland to Nelson and Florraine Stegeman, Jackie lived a life of devotion to her family and loved ones. She attended Zeeland Public Schools and graduated from Hope College in 1973. 

Jackie was a counselor for Camp Geneva and went on to a long and fulfilling career in elementary education with West Ottawa Public Schools for 34 years. 

Jackie was a member of Christ Memorial Church for more than 50 years and was actively involved in many missions in life. She enjoyed serving others through places like Love SEWS ministry, and Kenya Hope where she served on the board after her travels to Kenya to dedicate a school in her mother's honor. 

Jackie was preceded in death by her sister in-law, Susan Swanezy.

Jackie is survived by her husband of 52 years, James Swanezy; children, Jenna (Drew) Kastran and Jonathan (Ashley) Swanezy; grandchildren, Brooke and Colin Kastran, and Mila and Colby Swanezy; siblings, Steve (Ruth) Stegeman, Marsha (Gregg) Converse, 
Marybeth (Greg) Timmer and Rebecca (Rob) Riekse; brother-in-law, Scott (Suze) Swanezy; and many cousins, aunts and uncles.

A celebration of her life was held Wednesday, July 8 at Christ Memorial Church, 595 Graafschap Rd., Holland. 

The family requests that donations can be made in her honor to Camp Geneva in Holland, or Kenya Hope in Hudsonville.

Ronald Driesenga, 75

Ronald Driesenga, 75, of Holland, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

Ron graduated from Zeeland High School and then started driving truck for De Young Industrial Refuse, where he retired in 2017. He loved spending time with his family and friends and enjoyed riding his motorcycles and working on his hotrods.

Ron was preceded in death by his infant son, Jeffrey Driesenga; parents, Harvey and Goldie Driesenga; brother, Steve Driesenga; and brothers-in-law, Dan Gruppen and Wayne Sneller.

He is survived by his son, Scott and Sarah Driesenga; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Jessica Driesenga (Emerson), Nicole Irons (Ethan, Gavin and Melanie), and Blake Driesenga; step-grandchildren Haley Clark (Addison) and Elijah Levy; siblings, Marlene Sneller, Linda and Bill Casey, Kathy and Kevin Fugelseth, Bonnie and Terry Gruppen, and Jim and Judie Driesenga; and sister-in-law, Vicki Driesenga.

Funeral services were held Monday, July 6 at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Interment was in Restlawn Memorial Gardens.

Spend enough time on social media, and it can start to feel like everyone is angry.

(The following editorial was originally published in The Cadillac News.)

Spend enough time on social media, and it can start to feel like everyone is angry.

Scroll through the comments on a local issue, and you might see strong opinions, sharp criticism and sometimes outright hostility. It can leave the impression that our community is divided, frustrated and constantly at odds with one another.

But that really isn’t a fair picture.

The loudest voices aren’t always the majority.

In fact, most of the people in our community are thoughtful, reasonable and deeply invested in making this place better. They care about their neighbors. They want safe schools, strong local businesses, responsible government and a community they can be proud to call home.

They may not always agree on how to get there. But they share more common ground than the online conversations would suggest.

One of the challenges of modern communication is that a small number of voices can dominate the conversation. Social media platforms are designed to amplify strong reactions. Posts that spark outrage, fear or frustration tend to travel further and faster than calm, measured discussion. That doesn’t mean those opinions represent most people. It simply means they are more visible.

We see this firsthand in our work at the Cadillac News.

There have been many times when we have written a story that included verified facts and comments from multiple sides of an issue. After publication, we’ve heard from readers on both sides who believed the article was biased against them. That reaction doesn’t necessarily mean the reporting was unfair. Often, it reflects how strongly people feel about an issue — and how easy it is to assume that disagreement equals bias. Also, some are trying to drown out others’ opinions.

The reality is that most community members aren’t posting online every day. They’re working. Raising families. Volunteering. Coaching youth sports. Serving on boards. Running small businesses. Taking care of neighbors.

They are engaged in the quiet, steady work that keeps a community functioning.

And they are the true majority.

That’s why it’s important not to confuse noise with consensus.

Another place where this dynamic shows up is at public meetings.

Local governments, school boards and other public bodies set aside time for public comment because they want to hear directly from residents. It is one of the most important opportunities citizens have to participate in local decision-making. Yet many people choose not to speak, even when they have something valuable to contribute.

Why?

Often, it’s not because they don’t care. It’s because they’re uneasy about the tone of the conversation.

We have all seen meetings where emotions run high and comments are delivered with anger or frustration. Passion about an issue is understandable. These decisions affect our families, our schools and our tax dollars. But when comments become heated, it can discourage others from stepping forward. People who might otherwise share thoughtful perspectives decide to stay seated, worried about being criticized, challenged or drawn into conflict.

That hesitation is understandable — but it comes at a cost.

We have all seen meetings where emotions run high and comments are delivered with anger or frustration. Passion about an issue is understandable. These decisions affect our families, our schools and our tax dollars. But when comments become heated, it can discourage others from stepping forward. People who might otherwise share thoughtful perspectives decide to stay seated, worried about being criticized, challenged or drawn into conflict.

That hesitation is understandable — but it comes at a cost. And when more people step forward, our community benefits from a broader, more balanced conversation.

Local journalism plays a role in that process. Our responsibility is not to amplify the loudest voices, but to reflect the full community. That includes the perspectives of those who speak up publicly and those who quietly contribute every day. It is a challenge to get some perspectives because some in the community are afraid of being confronted in a hostile manner by someone who disagrees.

We believe the strength of this community lies not in the volume of its disagreements, but in the willingness of its people to work through them together.

The next time an issue sparks strong reactions online — or emotions run high at a public meeting — it may be worth remembering that what we see and hear in the moment is only part of the conversation.

Most people are still willing to listen.

Most people are still willing to work together.

And most people still care deeply about this community and its future.

They may not always be the loudest voices.

But they are the majority.

And our community is strongest when those voices feel confident enough to speak—and respectful enough to listen.

That is the heart of civil discourse.

For the past four years, I have taken a weekly tap-dancing class at a studio in a community where I had my last job before I became editor of the Zeeland Record.

By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record

For the past four years, I have taken a weekly tap-dancing class at a studio in a community where I had my last job before I became editor of the Zeeland Record.

A couple of months ago, I danced in a year-end recital. I had a blast, as my dance partner and I shuffled and time-stepped our way through the Earth, Wind & Fire classic “September.”

You may ask why I tap. First, it’s a great aerobic workout. Secondly, it engages my mind, helping build neural connections as I try to remember steps and combinations. 

Finally, it boosts my mental health, particularly when I struggle with depression. It brings me joy.

As a reporter who has covered this area for close to 40 years, I’ve found that at times there have been segments of the local faith community that have been resistant to dance. The perception, I observed, was that dancing was inherently sinful and that engaging in it led to other sins, such as sex outside the bonds of marriage.

I’ll be honest, I once joked that there was a 10th-and-a-half commandment handed to Moses on Mt. Sinai called “Thou Shalt Not Dance.” I admit it was sacrilegious for me to say that.

But as I read the Scriptures, there are several examples of dancing that honored God.

My favorite example is found in 2 Samuel 6:14-16. The context is that the Ark of the Lord was being transported to Jerusalem. As David is leading the procession from the house of Obed-Edom to Jerusalem, he stops to sacrifice a bull and a fattened calf. We then pick up the story in verses 14-15:

“David, wearing a linen ephod, danced before the Lord with all his might, while he and the entire house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouts and the sounds of trumpets.”

But there was one inside David’s own household who rolled her eyes at what she saw: Michal, his first wife, the daughter of King Saul. (Remember, that it was Michal who helped David escape when her father, Saul, sent people out to kill him in 1 Samuel 19.) We continue in verse 16:

“As the ark of the Lord was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. And when she saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord, she despised him in her heart.”

When the celebration ended, our boy David went home to bless his household (6:20), and was greeted by Michal, very likely with hand on hip and showing “The Look” of disgust on her face.

“How the king of Israel distinguished himself today, disrobing in the sight of slave girls of his servants as any vulgar fellow would!” Michal said.

David makes no apologies.

“David said to Michal, ‘it was before the Lord, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the Lord’s people Israel – I will celebrate before the Lord. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor.’” (6:21-22)

The postscript of the story was that Michal had no more children the rest of her life. The royal line that would lead centuries leader to Jesus would no longer go through Saul and Michal.

In Exodus 15:20, after the Israelites crossed the Red Sea on dry land and the waters washed over the pursuing Egyptians, Miriam, Moses’ sister, “took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her, with tambourines and dancing” to celebrate God’s deliverance from the oppression of Pharoah.

Thankfully, attitudes in our community toward dancing have changed in recent years. 

In 1974, Maxine DeBruyn, a Zeelander, convinced Hope College to allow the startup of a dance program on campus. Today, it’s one of the top collegiate dance programs in the country. In addition, Hope students have held a 24-hour Dance Marathon annually for more than 25 years that has raised millions for Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

Meanwhile, the dance program at Zeeland Public Schools celebrated its 30th anniversary this past spring, the vision of the indomitable Nancy Clyde. Hundreds of young people have come through the ZPS dance program, and now one of Clyde’s former students, Samantha Lamer, leads the program.

We also have a faith-based studio, Turning Pointe School of Dance in Holland, which has been around for more than 25 years. Many of their productions are based on stories from Scripture.

I get that certain types of dancing could lead to immoral behavior. Those concerns are not unwarranted. But please, don’t assume that all types of dance are inherently sinful.

I believe when we get to the end – when we have a new heaven and a new earth as described in the Book of Revelation – there’s going to be one massive party where we get to celebrate and worship our Lord. And I believe there will be a lot of dancing. 

So, to quote a line from “The Lord of the Dance,” a hymn composed in the 1960s set to music from the Shaker tradition: “Dance, then, wherever you may be…”