In Memoriam

1940s

Howard DeMaster ’48
Howard L. DeMaster, age 96 of Shawano, formerly of Breed, passed away on Tuesday, July 5, 2022 at his home at The Cottages in Shawano. Howie was born on October 30, 1925 in Sheboygan County. He grew up in Cedar Grove, WI. He was a proud Navy veteran with lots of stories to tell. While … Continue reading "Howard DeMaster ’48"
Mary Brower ’48 Post
Mary E. Post slipped from this life on March 15, 2022, with her children at her side. She died at Westminster Woods where she had been a resident for twenty-seven years. Mary Ellen was born to the Reverend Bert Brower and wife Susanna (Hamelink) in Grand Rapids, Michigan where her father pastored the Home Acres Reformed … Continue reading "Mary Brower ’48 Post"
James Den Herder ’49
After a long struggle with declining health, James M. Den Herder has found eternal peace. He died March 7, 2022, at the age of 97, in Naples, FL. Jim was born on December 22, 1924. He was raised by parents Jay and Ruth Den Herder in Holland, Michigan, where he graduated from Holland High School and Hope College. During World War … Continue reading "James Den Herder ’49"
Mary Hepp ’49 Dunning
Mary Louise Dunning of Westerville OH, age 94, passed away peacefully at home and in the presence of family members on July 8, 2022. Born in 1928 to a Brooklyn (New York City) couple of modest means, Mary was orphaned young and raised with a cousin by an aunt—a single mother working in the garment … Continue reading "Mary Hepp ’49 Dunning"
Judith Mulder ’49 Van Zanten
Beloved wife for 53 years of the late, S. Craig VanZanten. Loving mother of Pamela E. (Ted), S. Craig ’77 (Kate), John B. ’78 (the late Mariann), T. Hugh, and Dacia L. Van Zanten ’85 (Peter ’83). Proud grandmother and step- grandmother of 10 and great grandmother of 4. Judy filled her life with family and … Continue reading "Judith Mulder ’49 Van Zanten"

1950s

Phyllis Sherman ’50 Booi
Phyllis Jeanne (Sherman) Booi, age 93, of Holland, passed away on Tuesday, July 5, 2022 at Appledorn Assisted Living Center. Phyllis was born in Brooklyn, New York. She attended Hope College where she met her husband-to-be, Duane, and they were married in Dimnent Chapel in 1950. They lived in Illinois and Pennsylvania where P.J., as … Continue reading "Phyllis Sherman ’50 Booi"
Henrietta Weener ’50 Bruggers
A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 1:00 PM in La Chapelle de Martin & Castille in Lafayette for Henrietta W. Bruggers, 92, who died on Monday, April 25, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Reverend John Cannon, Senior Pastor of Asbury United Methodist Church in Lafayette, will conduct the funeral … Continue reading "Henrietta Weener ’50 Bruggers"
John Dinger ’50
John Phillip Dinger, born October 7, 1927, passed away at age 94 at his home in Zeeland on April 10, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised there by his beloved grandmother, Johanna Dinger. We all enjoyed the many interesting recollections of his youth growing up in Brooklyn. After serving … Continue reading "John Dinger ’50"
Marilyn Wolbrink ’50 Koop
Marilyn Koop, 94, passed away peacefully surrounded by her children on March 22, 2022. Marilyn was born in Allendale on July 22, 1927 to Russell and Marjorie Wolbrink. She graduated from Coopersville High School and attended Hope College where she met Robert Koop. They were married in 1950. Marilyn was a school teacher and taught primary grades … Continue reading "Marilyn Wolbrink ’50 Koop"
Charles Mulder ’50
Charles Henry Mulder, 96, passed peacefully in hospice care, with his loving wife of 69 years, “Patty” by his side, February 24, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Della, brother Robert. Born in Grand Haven, he made his home in Grand Rapids and Howard City. He is survived by his life-long … Continue reading "Charles Mulder ’50"
Elizabeth Koch ’50 Robinson
Was born in New York City, March 8, 1929. She and her family moved to Summerville, NJ, where Betty grew up and became part of the Civil Air Patrol during WWII. Betty graduated with her bachelor’s degree from Hope College and her Master’s in Bacteriology from Rutgers University. She met her husband, Atlee Robinson, when … Continue reading "Elizabeth Koch ’50 Robinson"
Carl Nelke ’51
Dr. Carl D. Nelke, a retired dentist, passed away on Friday, March 25, 2022. He was 92 years old. He was born on July 26, 1929 in Midland Park, New Jersey. He was a graduate of Pompton Lakes High School, attended Hope College, and graduated from Temple University School of Dentistry in June of 1954. He then … Continue reading "Carl Nelke ’51"
Charles Sligh III ’51
Charles Robert Sligh III, (Charlie) was born October 20, 1926, passed away at age 95 at Vista Springs care center on April 15, 2022. Charlie was born in Grand Rapids, MI to Charles R Sligh Jr and Charlotte Klumph Sligh. He moved with his family to Holland, MI in 1933 and grew up on the shore of Lake Macatawa. Charlie … Continue reading "Charles Sligh III ’51"
Harriet Essenburg ’51 Van Reken
Harriet van Reken of Bloomfield Hills died May 22, 2022. She was 91 years old. Harriet was born December 19, 1930 in Atwood, Michigan to Jennie (nee Klooster) and Garrit Essenberg. A church organist and pianist, Harriet is now playing for the Lord. Preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Stanley R. van Reken, Harriet is survived by … Continue reading "Harriet Essenburg ’51 Van Reken"
Robert Dennison ’52
Robert Artson Dennison, age 93, passed away on Saturday, March 5, 2022 at Freedom Village in Holland, MI, where he had lived for the past 8 years. He was born on May 9, 1928 in Claremont, NH to Artson Vard and Marion (Archibald) Dennison.  He was a very proud descendant of Mayflower passenger John Alden, as well … Continue reading "Robert Dennison ’52"
Donald DeYoung ’52
Rev. Donald “Don” H. DeYoung passed away peacefully on March 30, 2022 while under hospice care in Kalamazoo, MI. Rev. Don was 91 years old and had his wife, Jackie, bedside when he went to be with his Lord. Don was born November 14, 1930 in Grand Rapids, MI to Mamie and Neil DeYoung. After graduating from Central … Continue reading "Donald DeYoung ’52"
Jacqueline VanHeest ’52 DeYoung
Jacqueline “Jackie” DeYoung passed away peacefully on April 8, 2022 while under hospice care in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Jackie was 90 years old at the time of her passing and had been preceded in death by her husband (Rev. Donald H. DeYoung) just nine days earlier. Jackie was born Jacqueline VanHeest on July 9, 1931 in Catskill, New York … Continue reading "Jacqueline VanHeest ’52 DeYoung"
Erna Laing ’52
Erna C. Laing of Nashua, NH, widow of William Laing, passed away at the Hunt Community, Tuesday morning, July 6, 2022 on her 92nd birthday. Mrs. Laing was born in New York City on July 6, 1930 a daughter of the late Herbert and Margaret Piek. Erna resided on Long Island, NY and was a … Continue reading "Erna Laing ’52"
Hendrik Parson ’52
Hendrik Parson ’52 March 21, 2022, Gardnerville, Nevada Survivors include his spouse, Georgia Parson
Charles Wissink ’52
Charles Jay Wissink, 91, of Boca Raton, FL, departed this life on Friday, January 21, 2022.  Charles was the first child of the Reverend Charles B. and Geraldine Wissink, born on May 23, 1930, in Orange City, IA.  He spent his childhood in Iowa and Michigan, as the family moved among areas known well to … Continue reading "Charles Wissink ’52"
Russell Block ’53
Rev. Russell Block was born on November 12, 1930 to Charles and Ida Helzel Block in New York City and grew up in Cliffside Park, NJ, graduating from Weehawken High School. He attended the University of Chicago and Hope College before earning a Bachelor of Ministry degree in 1956 from Western Theological Seminary in Holland MI. That year he … Continue reading "Russell Block ’53"
Verlaine Brown ’53
Verlaine Ruth Siter Brown, 91, of Vernon Green, and longtime resident of Newfane, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday morning, July 21, 2022. She died from complications of Parkinson’s Disease. Verlaine was born in Hackensack, New Jersey on May 18, 1931, the daughter of George and Anna (Palmquist) Siter. She was a … Continue reading "Verlaine Brown ’53"
Dorothy Moerdyk ’53 Hoekstra
Dorothy Ann “Dotty” Hoekstra, age 90 of Holland, Michigan, went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at Freedom Village. She was born on November 18, 1931, in Amarah, Iraq, to the late William and Cornelia (Leenhouts) Moerdyk. Dotty married Dr. George Hoekstra on September 3, 1954, in Holland, Michigan. He preceded her in death on … Continue reading "Dorothy Moerdyk ’53 Hoekstra"
William Sailer ’53
William (Bill) Hall Sailer, 90, of Deal Island, MD passed away on Sunday, April 3, 2022, in his home. He was born in New York City on September 30, 1931, to the late Robert J. Sailer and Katherine (Hall) Sailer of New York. Bill graduated from George Washington High School in 1949 where he received a full scholarship for swimming … Continue reading "William Sailer ’53"
Donald Shull ’54
Donald Monroe Shull of Portage, MI, died June 22, 2022, at Rose Arbor in Kalamazoo MI at the age of 88 where he left us now to be with his Savior and Lord. He was born on August 2, 1933, in Brooklyn NY to Leonard and Frances (Lehman) Shull. Don graduated from Ridgefield Park High … Continue reading "Donald Shull ’54"
Glenn Straatsma ’54
Dr. Glen Wayne Straatsma, M.D. was born in Sioux Center, Iowa, on Sept. 21, 1931, to Elmer and Alice Mae Straatsma. Growing up in Sioux Center, Glen was active in church, school and civic affairs. He was an exceptional athlete participating in baseball, cross country and basketball, where he earned his nickname, “Stretch.” His family moved in … Continue reading "Glenn Straatsma ’54"
Harold Goldzung Sr. ’55
Harold J. Goldzung, Sr., 88, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2022 with his family by his side at Brookdale Senior Assisted Living in Attleboro. He was the beloved husband of Mary E. (Hesselink) Goldzung for 65 years, whom he married on August 18, 1956. Born on December 20, 1933 in Mineola, NY, he was … Continue reading "Harold Goldzung Sr. ’55"
James Hutton ’55
James Strang Hutton, 89, entered into eternal peace on Sunday, May 8, 2022 with his family at his side, at St. Peter’s Hospital, Albany, NY. Born in Niskayuna on November 9, 1932, Jim was one of two children of Raymond and Ruth (Strang) Hutton. He was a proud graduate of Nott Terrace High School in Schenectady and … Continue reading "James Hutton ’55"
Ruth Pruis ’56 Boender
Mrs. Ruth Boender, age 89, of Sheldon, formerly of Boyden, passed away on Friday, March 11, 2022, at the Sanford Sheldon Medical Center. There will be a memorial service on Friday, March 18, at 2:30pm, at the First Reformed Church in Boyden. The Rev. Heath De Jong will officiate. Interment will be prior to the service … Continue reading "Ruth Pruis ’56 Boender"
Robert N. DeYoung ’56
Robert “Bob” DeYoung of Holland passed away Monday, August 1, 2022, three months shy of his 90th birthday. The son of Henry and Nell (DeBruyn) DeYoung and younger brother to Doretta (Zandstra), Milt and Vern all who preceded him in death. Bob met the love of his life, Marcia Smith while a student/athlete at Hope … Continue reading "Robert N. DeYoung ’56"
Marcia Veldman ’56 Thompson
Marcia Ann (Veldman) Thompson, 88, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2022 in Ann Arbor, MI. She was born in Grand Rapids, MI on March 29,1934 to Dr. Harold and Pearl Veldman, joining her older brother, Don, to complete the family. As a girl, she especially enjoyed summer trips to the family cottage at Whitefish Lake. … Continue reading "Marcia Veldman ’56 Thompson"
Warren Buitendorp ’57
Warren Roger Buitendorp, 86, of Berlin, MD peacefully passed away on May 13, 2021, right after a  gorgeous sunset. He was with family, who will miss him, under the care of Coastal Hospice. After a  very sudden and unexpected return of cancer, he moved to be with his family and even up until  his last … Continue reading "Warren Buitendorp ’57"
Janet Tuttle ’57 Faulstich
Jan Faulstich passed away Feb. 4, 2022. She grew up in Hawthorne, N.Y. and attended Briarcliff High School and Hope College in Michigan, taking a year-and-a-half “gap year” in the middle to study and travel in Europe. After college she worked in the inner-city Protestant parishes in Cleveland and Harlem, serving youth in those communities, before attending … Continue reading "Janet Tuttle ’57 Faulstich"
David Kinkema ’57
David Roger Kinkema, age 87, of North Canton, passed away on June 9, 2022. David was born on March 9, 1935 in Albany, New York to the late Reverend and Mrs. Percy Kinkema. He received his B.A. in Sociology from Hope College in Holland, Michigan. After he graduated, he served two years in the Army, … Continue reading "David Kinkema ’57"
Dawn Phillips ’58 Heyer
Dawn Fay Heyer, 85, of Holland, passed away Thursday March 24, 2022. She was predeceased by her husband, Robert (Bob) H. Heyer; a son, Jonathan; her parents, Ben and Thelma Nelson Phillips; brother-in-law, Don Heyer; sisters-in-law, Joyce Heyer and Norma Girod. She is survived by her three sons, Eric, Thom, and Kurt; brother-in-law, Roger Heyer; sister-in-law, Elaine Heyer along with several nieces and … Continue reading "Dawn Phillips ’58 Heyer"
Wayne Nyboer ’58
Wayne Nyboer, age 90, of Holland died Wednesday, June 22, 2022. Wayne was an elementary school principal with the West Ottawa Schools for many years. He was always involved in church activities at both Rose Park Reformed and Central Park Reformed Churches. He enjoyed antiques, had a passion for studying history and spent many years … Continue reading "Wayne Nyboer ’58"
Corwin Bredeweg ’59
Corwin Jay Bredeweg, age 84, was called home to be with Jesus on March 25th. He was born on December 9, 1937 in the small community of Dorr, Michigan. He graduated from Hope College and then attended University of Kansas where he earned his PhD in both Chemistry and Mathematics. While at KU, he met and fell in … Continue reading "Corwin Bredeweg ’59"
Franklin McCarthy ’59
Dr. Franklin L McCarthy, 84, of O’Hara Township, passed away on Tuesday March 8, 2022. He was born on October 5, 1937, in Holland, Michigan, the son of the late Leslie and Nellie (Kongkrya) McCarthy. Dr. Franklin is survived by his loving wife, Patricia; his children, Heather (Brandon) and John (Anne). He is also survived by his … Continue reading "Franklin McCarthy ’59"

1960s

Walter Johnson ’60
Walter Johnson, a food industry executive and long-time peace activist, died May 12 in Hollywood, Calif. after a long battle with Altzheimer’s disease. He was 83. Johnson was a presence in every room. Six-feet tall, handsome, boisterous and perpetually smiling, he would rush to strangers and reach out with an eubulant handshake: “Hi, I’m Walter Johnson!” On the … Continue reading "Walter Johnson ’60"
Gary Raterink ’60
Gary Junior Raterink, age 86 of Grand Rapids, Michigan went to his Eternal home on Saturday, July 16, 2022.  Born September 4th,1935 in Zeeland MI he is survived by his sons Jim (Tammy) and Steve (Alyssa) and his 7 grandchildren, Brandon, Sam, Amanda (Goins), Hope, Isabelle, Marielle & Alexis Raterink; sisters Lorraine Becksfort, Betty Morren and brother … Continue reading "Gary Raterink ’60"
Bruce Vander Mel ’60
Bruce Paul (“Tim”) Vander Mel passed away peacefully on April 5, 2022, surrounded by family.   Tim was the beloved husband of Lucy C. Vander Mel to whom he was married for 60 years, devoted father to his two sons, and loving grandfather to his four grandchildren.  He cared deeply about his entire extended family … Continue reading "Bruce Vander Mel ’60"
Lee Henry Wenke ’60
Lee Henry Wenke entered into eternal rest on June 30, 2022. He leaves his wife Joan ’60, of 61 and a half years, and three children: Curtis Wenke, Joni Foster (Shawn), Donna Jones (Mark) and four grandchildren: Taylor, Kalyn, Joel Jones and James Kelly. Lee leaves his sister, Lois Sulka (Gary); sisters-in-law, Lucille Schroeder ’55 … Continue reading "Lee Henry Wenke ’60"
Bruce Beimers ’62
Bruce Beimers, 88 went home to be with his Lord and Savior on March 18. He is survived by wife Delores, the love of his life for 63 years. He also leaves behind son Brett and Mary (Schat) daughter Darla (Shangle) and 3 grandchildren, Boone, Dory, Jade. Bruce was a Sergeant in the United States Army … Continue reading "Bruce Beimers ’62"
Nancy Guldenschuh ’62 Zimmer
Nancy Ann Zimmer, age 81 passed away on Thursday, March 24th 2022. Nancy was born in Canandaigua, NY August 16, 1940 to Carl and Marian Guldenschuh. She grew up in Brighton, graduated from Penfield high school and continued her education at Hope College in Michigan. On August 15,1964, she married George Zimmer and together they raised 2 children. They were … Continue reading "Nancy Guldenschuh ’62 Zimmer"
Sharon VanEerfen ’63 Bos
Sharon Joy ( Van Eerden) Bos of Holland, Michigan, 82, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2022. A lifelong native of Holland, Sharon was born December 11, 1939 to John and Marie Van Eerden. She graduated from Holland High School in 1959 and studied at Hope College before settling into raising her family. She worked in retail … Continue reading "Sharon VanEerfen ’63 Bos"
Roberta Brookmann ’63 Looman
Roberta “Robin” Looman (nee Brookmann), of Webster Groves, MO, passed away Tuesday, March 15, 2022 at the age of 81. Loving wife of 58 years to Gary Looman ’60; beloved daughter of the late Martin and Rigmor Brookmann; loving mother of Sue Kristin Looman ’89 (Russell ’91) Dittmar, Karen Beth Looman ’91, and Ann Looman ’96 (Dave) Hunter; … Continue reading "Roberta Brookmann ’63 Looman"
J. Paul Teusink ’64
Dr J . Paul Teusink, MD died on December 11, 2021 in New York City, New York. Paul is survived by his wife, Dr Cheryl Seaman, and daughters, Laura Teusink , Marcia Teusink and his brother, Ken Teusink, class of 1967. Paul was the son of Rev. Howard Teusink and Anna May Teusink who were also both Hope Graduates. Paul earned his MD degree at … Continue reading "J. Paul Teusink ’64"
Margie Otto ’65 Meyer
Margie “Marj” Lynne Meyer, age 79 of Spring Lake, passed away the morning of Tuesday, May 10, 2022, at home. She was born on January 5, 1943, in Sturgis, Michigan, the daughter of Edward and Waneta (Lantz) Otto. Margie graduated from Sturgis High School, Class of 1961, and in 1965 she graduated with a B.A. from … Continue reading "Margie Otto ’65 Meyer"
John Ver Steeg ’65
John H. VerSteeg, of Kalamazoo, went to be with his Heavenly Father on June 10, 2022. John was born March 9, 1943 in Sheldon, Iowa, son of Melvin A. Sr. and Eunice M. (DeBruin) VerSteeg. He had resided in the Kalamazoo area since graduating from Hope College in 1965. He served in the Air Force National Guard … Continue reading "John Ver Steeg ’65"
Gregory DePree ’66
Gregory DePree was born the twelfth of April, 1944 in Columbus, Ohio; the oldest of three brothers born to Hugh and Ruth DePree. Growing up in Zeeland, Michigan, Greg attended Zeeland High School, where he excelled in golf and football. Greg was a graduate of Hope College in Holland, Michigan and earned his graduate degree from American University in Washington, … Continue reading "Gregory DePree ’66"
Henry Dykema ’67
James Dykema, age 76, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2022. Henry was born to Frederick & Elizabeth Dykema on November 12, 1945. Henry grew up in Grant, MI, studied chemistry in college and then became a teacher at Grant Public Schools. He was initially a 5th grade teacher for a short time, then he became a high … Continue reading "Henry Dykema ’67"
Calvin Kempker ’68
Calvin (Cal) Kempker, age 77, passed away unexpectedly on April 7, 2022. Cal was a man of many loves. He enjoyed gardening, biking, and a good walk downtown Holland. He was an avid reader and visited the library often. He was passionate about travel, especially by train internationally. He loved his dog; Piper and he will … Continue reading "Calvin Kempker ’68"
Lenora DeBoer ’69 Ridder
In her own writing, Lenora stated, “The Lord always had a plan for me. It was good, very good, and a hope for the future.” Lenora (De Boer) Ridder was raised in South Holland, Illinois on July 8, 1927 by Peter and Lena De Boer. She was encouraged to attend Calvin College by her pastor, and by … Continue reading "Lenora DeBoer ’69 Ridder"
David Ross ’69
David was the son of the late Clara Gouger Ross and William Myron Ross. David grew up in the Winton Road / Main Street area of Rochester, New York. He graduated from East High School in 1965 and received his undergraduate degree from Hope College in Holland, Michigan. He received his Master of Education degree from Wayne State University. David … Continue reading "David Ross ’69"
David Styf ’69
David Styf, age 75, passed away Monday, July 11, 2022. Dave was born and raised in Zeeland, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sherry. Dave and Sherry raised their three children in Hastings, MI and retired to Sarasota, FL and Wyoming, MI, before Dave moved to Marietta, GA in 2021. Dave was … Continue reading "David Styf ’69"
Stephen VanderWeele ’69
Stephen F VanderWeele passed away May 2022 in Ft. Worth TX after a long illness. He is survived by 2 children , Christopher VanderWeele and Carrie Grace, and 2 grandsons. No obituary. His ashes were brought back to Michigan.

1970s

Laura Boyd ’70
Laura Jean (Peters) Boyd passed away on July 8, 2022. Laura was born on September 5, 1948 in Chicago, IL to James and Mona (Stresenreuter) Peters. The family later moved from Chicago’s South Side to Homewood, IL where she grew up. Her life was forever changed when her father, a WW2 Purple Heart recipient, passed away when … Continue reading "Laura Boyd ’70"
Brian Gibson ’71
Brian Curtis Gibson, 74, of Holland Michigan passed away on June 14. Born in LaGrange, Illinois, near Chicago, he was the youngest of four brothers. Brian is remembered tenderly as a warmhearted, loving man. He worked for many years inHolland and Grand Rapids in social service, helping the poor and underserved. Brian served faithfully for years … Continue reading "Brian Gibson ’71"
Dale Muyskens ’71
Dale Edward Muyskens, 72, of Athens passed away, after a brief illness, on Tuesday March 1, 2022 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 from 11:00am to 1:00pm with a Memorial Service immediately following at the First Congregational UCC, 410 N. Broadway St., Union City, with Pastor Don … Continue reading "Dale Muyskens ’71"
Thomas De Cair ’72
Tom DeCair, 77, of St. Pete Beach, Florida, died June 12, 2022 following a brief illness. DeCair came to the Holland Sentinel in 1965 as an intern from Kalamazoo College and later served as the Sentinel’s sports editor. After service in the U.S. Army he returned to Holland to attend Hope College where he received his B.A. in … Continue reading "Thomas De Cair ’72"
Robert Hoffman ’72
Mr. Robert Lee Hoffman, age 71, passed away with his family by his side on Tuesday, April 19, 2022. He was born in Muskegon on June 5, 1950, to Herman and Edna (Medema) Hoffman. He attended Muskegon Public Schools and then Hope College where he received a bachelor’s degree. On June 10, 1972, Bob married the former … Continue reading "Robert Hoffman ’72"
Laurel Dekker ’72 Kempkers
After a four year battle with ALS, Laurel Beth VanHaitsma Kempkers, aged 71, of Hamilton, formerly of Scottville, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Friday, April 1, 2022. Laurel was born on Aug. 28, 1950 in Chicago, the daughter of Eugene and Adriana (Cook) Dekker and graduated from Homewood-Flossmoor High School with … Continue reading "Laurel Dekker ’72 Kempkers"
Ronald Deenik ’73
Dr. Ronald Wayne Deenik, age 70, passed away at home on July 15 following an unexpected and quick bout with cancer. Dr. Deenik was a lifelong learner, teacher and mentor. Raised in South Holland, Illinois, Dr. Deenik graduated from Thornridge High School. He continued his education earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Hope College and a Doctor of Dental … Continue reading "Ronald Deenik ’73"
Justine Emerson ’74
Justine Beth Emerson was born January 18, 1953 in Newark, New Jersey to Harold and Norma (Crawford) Emerson. Her family moved to Erie, Pennsylvania when she was 3 years old. She graduated from McDowell High School in 1970 and was renowned in high school as an athlete and a scholar. She played tennis, was on the gymnastics team, … Continue reading "Justine Emerson ’74"
Greg Gronwall ’74
Age 70, of Lawrenceburg, IN, passed away unexpectedly Sunday May 1, 2022. Greg was born in Tonawanda, NY on April 4, 1952, to John C. and Twila M. (Berger) Gronwall. He went to schools in Tonawanda and graduated class of 1970, and in 1974 graduated from Hope College, Holland, MI. After college, Greg became a Regional … Continue reading "Greg Gronwall ’74"
Wes Wilhelmsen ’74
Wesley Carl Wilhelmsen, 68, an area resident since 1999 and formerly of Lake Dutchess in Holmes, died peacefully at his home on December 14, 2020. Born in Brooklyn on March 1, 1952, he was the son of Willy and Liv (Sunde) Wilhelmsen. Wesley received his Masters’ Degrees from Western Connecticut State University and Lehman College. He was employed as a … Continue reading "Wes Wilhelmsen ’74"
Mary Vande Bunte ’76 Ross
Mary Elizabeth (VandeBunte) Ross, of Bath, MI passed away surrounded by family on March 26, 2022, after a lengthy battle with leukemia. Mary’s childhood was shaped by the small neighborhood she grew up in, in Holland MI where she helped care for the children close by. She grew up surrounded by music and played Viola and … Continue reading "Mary Vande Bunte ’76 Ross"
Robert Baker II ’79
Robert J. Baker, II Obituary Robert J. Baker, II 1/23/1957 ~ 4/21/2022 Born in Lansing, Michigan to Robert J. Baker and Donna E. High Baker. Bob is survived by sisters, Deborah (Mark) VanDeventer and Marian Baker and brother Michael (Elaine) Baker along with several nieces and nephews. Bob graduated from Harry Hill High School in Lansing, Michigan and graduated from Hope College in Holland Michigan. His … Continue reading "Robert Baker II ’79"
Harold Delhagen ’79
Rev. Dr. Harold M. Delhagen passed away on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at the age of 64, after a long and hard fought battle with cancer. Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Harold was a graduate of Hope College (1979), New Brunswick Theological Seminary with a Master’s in Divinity (1982), and McCormick Theological Seminary with a Doctor of Ministry … Continue reading "Harold Delhagen ’79"

1980s

Jack Oonk ’86
Jack Chester Oonk ( 64) of Holland, MI passed away peacefully in his home on May 7th, 2022. Jack was a man of many talents and a big heart. A member of the Holland Community Theater for his whole adult life, his most memorable role being that of Fagan in the theatre’s production of Oliver. Jack was … Continue reading "Jack Oonk ’86"
Kimberly Taylor ’87 Simons
Kimberly Joan Simons, 56, of Westfield passed away April 21, 2022.  She was born October 8, 1965, in Buchanan, MI, the daughter of Charles A. Taylor and Pat (Coleman) Breitkreuz.  She married Larry J. Simons on October 8, 1988. After high school, Kim went on to play volleyball at Hope College where she graduated with her bachelor’s degree … Continue reading "Kimberly Taylor ’87 Simons"

1990s

Karen Zienert ’90
Karen Diane Zienert, 53, of Niles passed away in the early hours of March 18, 2022. Cherished daughter of Kathleen Zienert and the late William Zienert, beloved sister of Richard Zienert, darling aunt to Megan, Raven, Jason and Hannah. She is also survived by many aunts and uncles, numerous cousins and first cousins once removed. In addition to her grandparents, … Continue reading "Karen Zienert ’90"
Christopher Collins ’92
Christopher Michael Collins, age 52, passed away unexpectedly on April 21, 2022. Chris was a beloved father, husband, son, brother, teacher and coach and will be remembered for the dedication, support and inspiration that he provided to so many family members, students and players. Chris was born on Jan. 16, 1970 in Ann Arbor to Dr. … Continue reading "Christopher Collins ’92"
Jennifer Donnelly ’92
Jennifer Donnelly was born Jennifer Spangler on January 31, 1966, in Lansing, Michigan. Her parents were the late Bud Spangler of Oakland, California and Monica Donnelly of Holland, Michigan. She was a graduate of Hope College. She died June 10, 2022. She is survived by her daughter, Emma Donnelly-Sironen; son, Miles Donnelly-Krol, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Ami Goding ’93
Ami Lavonne Goding (Nykamp), age 55 of Holland, unexpectedly entered the arms of God on June 20, 2022. Ami, the oldest of five children, was born in Holland on January 16, 1967, and grew up in Hamilton. Ami attended Hamilton High School, and after graduating in 1985, she attended Hope College to earn a degree in … Continue reading "Ami Goding ’93"
Kathleen Corcoran ’96 Varboncoeur
Kathleen Ann (Corcoran) Varboncoeur, age 47, passed away unexpectedly as the result of an automobile accident on Tuesday, March 22, 2022. She was born to Nancy (Curthoys) Corcoran and the late Laurence Corcoran in Roosevelt Park, MI on June 11, 1974. Kathleen attended Muskegon Catholic Schools and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education with honors … Continue reading "Kathleen Corcoran ’96 Varboncoeur"
Matthew Tailford ’97
William Matthews, born William Matthew Tailford, 53, of Valparaiso, passed away unexpectedly due to a cardiac condition on Friday, May 20, 2022. He will be deeply missed by his wife of nearly 15 years, Kimberly (Baker) and his two children, Gideon (10) and Amelia (8). He is preceded in death by his father William Tailford. He is … Continue reading "Matthew Tailford ’97"

2000s

Samantha Hyde ’04 Knight
Age 40, died on April 9, 2022. Samantha was born December 4, 1981 in Kalamazoo to Earl and Nancy ( Averill) Hyde. Samantha was preceded in death by her grandparents: Glenn ( Anita) Averill and Earl ( Faye) Hyde. Surviving are her husband: Adam; children: Keaton and Greyson; parents: Earl and Nancy Hyde; brother: Ben … Continue reading "Samantha Hyde ’04 Knight"

2010s

Anna Mulder ’10 Nieboer
With extreme sadness, we announce the death of Anna Marie Nieboer of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Who passed away on May 21, 2022, leaving her family and friends heartbroken. Anna was a thoughtful friend, beloved wife, daughter, and sister, foster parent, holistic midwife, and fierce advocate for the health of all women. Visitation will be held on Friday, May … Continue reading "Anna Mulder ’10 Nieboer"

Sympathy to

James Becksvoort
James Becksvoort age 85, of Holland, died Friday, April 15, 2022 at an area care center. He was preceded in death by his sons, Jamie and Brian. He was a member of Grace Community Church. James was a charter member of Grace Church IntersectionMinistries and retired from the maintenance department of Hope College. James is survived by … Continue reading "James Becksvoort"
Connie Brummel
Connie Brummel July 19, 2022, Holland, Michigan Connie Brummel was a former director of the Hope College CASA Program.
Leonard Ericks
Leonard Ericks June 21, 2022, Holland, Michigan Leonard Ericks retired from Hope College Creative Dining.
Bryant Hichwa
Bryant Hichwa April 30, 2022, The Sea Ranch, California Bryant Hichwa was a faculty member of the Hope College Department of Physics from 1975 to 1985.
Jon Huisken
Jon Huisken April 21, 2022, Jenison, Michigan Jon Huisken retired from Hope in 2011 after more than 40 years as the Hope College registrar.
Marjorie Maas
Marjorie Joyce Maas was called home to her heavenly Father July 17, 2022, at the age of 93. She leaves behind an incredible legacy of love, generosity, kindness, and wisdom. She was the wife to her late husband, Leonard, for 57 years and mother to their two sons, Thomas and Steven Maas. Marjorie was born … Continue reading "Marjorie Maas"