In Memoriam

1940s

Emilia “Mimi” Moncada ’43 Knooihuizen
Emilia Giovanna “Mimi” Knooihuizen passed away on June 12, 2020 at her home in Hudson, OH while surrounded by family members. She is preceded in death by her daughter Margaret Marie, her parents, the Reverend Pietro S and Emma Plavan Moncada, sister Clelia (Tom) Smith and brother Valdo (Mary). Mimi was born in 1923 and … Continue reading "Emilia “Mimi” Moncada ’43 Knooihuizen"
Seymour Padnos ’43
Seymour Padnos, much loved husband, father and grandfather, successful businessman and generous philanthropist passed away at his home in Holland, MI at the age of 99 on July 9, 2020. Throughout his life, Seymour was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed nothing more than feeling the wind in his face and sun on his back – whether … Continue reading "Seymour Padnos ’43"
Verladyne Saunders ’45 DeLoof
Verladyne DeLoof, 96, of Sioux Falls, died Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020 at the Avera Prince of Peace Nursing Home, Sioux Falls. She was born in 1924 in Michigan and attended West Michigan University and then graduated from Hope College with an education degree. She married Rev. Gerard “Jerry” DeLoof in 1950. The couple worked in … Continue reading "Verladyne Saunders ’45 DeLoof"
Jane Smies ’45 De Witt
Jane Ruth Smies De Witt of Joliet IL, aged 96, passed away on Friday August 2, 2019. Raised in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, she then attended Hope College in Holland, Michigan where she met and married William A. De Witt. They moved to Joliet in 1953. In 2010 she moved from her home on Western Ave to … Continue reading "Jane Smies ’45 De Witt"
Karl “KP” Wildermuth ’46
Karl Paul “KP” Wildermuth, 95, left this world peacefully December 1st, 2019 in his MaderiaBeach Florida home. Karl was born November 4th, 1924, in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin to Beata and Herbert Wildermuth.  Karl is preceded in death by his father Herbert, his mother Beata, and his brother Herbert Junior.  He is survived by his loving wife, Beverly HottWildermuth.  His four children, Terri (Yan Lin), … Continue reading "Karl “KP” Wildermuth ’46"
Thelma Oonk ’47 Brower
Thelma Brower, 95, of Urbandale, died on June 21, 2020, at Calvin Community. Private family graveside service was held in Lindenwood Cemetery near Geneva, Iowa. A public celebration of Thelma’s Life will be at a later date at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Des Moines. Arrangements are under the direction of Iles Funeral Home in Des … Continue reading "Thelma Oonk ’47 Brower"
Edith Herlein ’47 Maassen
Word has been received of the death of Edith Herlein ’47 Maassen of Zeeland, Michigan. She was 96. Survivors include her children, Ruth, Peter ’77 and Lois ’78; their partners Tom Tamlyn, Kay Gouwens ’77 and Chris Wiers ’81; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Marion Maurer ’48 Bostian
Marion Maurer ’48 Bostian of Cincinnati, Ohio, died on Monday, March 23, 2020.
Joseph Palmer Jr. ’48
Joe Palmer Jr. was born June 26, 1924 to Marian and Joseph Sr. of Grand Haven. He enjoyed spending summers at the family cottage on the Potawatomi Bayou off the Grand River with his sisters, Sarah and Mary. He was active in the Boy Scouts and graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1942. He … Continue reading "Joseph Palmer Jr. ’48"
George Zuidema ’49
On July 6, 2020 George D. Zuidema MD passed on to his eternal reward after battling a rare blood disorder. He was 92 years of age. George was the son of Jacob and Reka Zuidema. He was born in Holland, MI and graduated from Holland High School and Hope College, where he graduated with honors. … Continue reading "George Zuidema ’49"

1950s

Abraham deVries ’50
The Reverend Abraham deVries, of Canton, Michigan, passed away on Monday April 20th, 2020 at age of 93, due to complications associated with Covid-19. Abe was born December 21st in Maurice, Iowa to Gabe and Corneli (Van Ketel) deVries. He was inducted into the U.S Army serving as a medic until 1946. He attended Hope College where he … Continue reading "Abraham deVries ’50"
Kenneth Ruys ’50
Kenneth Ruys was born in Holland, Michigan to Mabel and Andrew Ruys. He is preceded in death by his wife Jonnie Ruys and two sons Kenneth Brickey (Brick) and John Anthony (Tony). He served in the Navy on The Eurayle in WW2 in the South Pacific. He met his wife, Jonnie, in Johnson City, TN and they were married in June 1949 … Continue reading "Kenneth Ruys ’50"
Mabel Eleanor Robinson ’51 Zoellner
Mabel Eleanor Zoellner died on August 25, 2020 in Scottsdale, AZ. She was born in Sparkill, NY, the daughter of loving parents Mary Elizabeth (Roemer), and George Robinson. Eleanor graduated from Tappan Zee High School N.Y. and then went to Scudder Secretarial School in New York City for two years. Upon graduation she worked as … Continue reading "Mabel Eleanor Robinson ’51 Zoellner"
Richard “Dick” Kruizenga ’52
Richard Kruizenga died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday August 16th. A Husband, Father, Executive and Philanthropist, Richard was born in Spring Lake, Michigan, in 1930 and died 25 miles away in Holland, Michigan, just short of his 90th birthday. But he traveled many miles in between and affected a great many people along the way. The son of Richard and … Continue reading "Richard “Dick” Kruizenga ’52"
Thomas Ritter ’52
Thomas F. Ritter, 90, of Alpena passed away Friday, Sept. 25, 2020 at Sally’s Care Home. Tom was born on Jan. 16, 1930 to Reuben and Harriett (Clark) Ritter in Gaylord, Michigan. Tom was a graduate of Petoskey High School. He attended Hope College, where he played college football and later received his master’s degree … Continue reading "Thomas Ritter ’52"
Gordon Thomas ’53
Gordon Thomas ’53 of Kalamazoo, Michigan, went to be with the Lord, Friday morning, June 12, 2020. Gordon was born November 14, 1930 in Chicago, IL a twin son of the late Arthur and Effie Thomas. He grew up in Saugatuck, MI, attended Hope College where he met Jeananne Bondhouse. They were married on April … Continue reading "Gordon Thomas ’53"
Marjorie Dykema ’53 Visscher
Marjorie (Marge) A. Visscher moved on to her heavenly home on August 20th, 2020, and will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Marjorie passed away in Holland, MI at the age of 89. Marjorie was born in Muskegon MI, on August 19, 1931. Marjorie is preceded in death by her father and mother, … Continue reading "Marjorie Dykema ’53 Visscher"
H. Wayne Berens ’54
Wayne Berens, Hope College class of 1954 passed away Saturday, September 19, 2020.  The son of the Reverend George Berens (Hope College, 1932) and his wife, Doris.  Brother to Evelyn Losee (Hope college, 1956).  Wayne graduated from Greenwich Central High School, Greenwich, NY.  After graduating from Hope College, Wayne served in the United States Army … Continue reading "H. Wayne Berens ’54"
Kathryn Phillips ’54 Cook
Word has been received of the death of Kathryn Phillips ’54 Cook of Zephyrhills, Florida. She was 89. Survivors include her husband, James Cook.
Donald VanderToll ’55
Dr. Donald J. VanderToll passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2020 following an illness with Alzheimer’s. Don was born on November 15, 1933 in Chicago, Illinois to John Vandertoll and Martina Snip Vandertoll. The family lived in Chicago and then Elgin, Illinois until 1948 when they moved to Louisville, Kentucky and resided at 2550 Ransdall … Continue reading "Donald VanderToll ’55"
Alyce Weener ’57 Osborn
Alyce Arlene Osborn (Weener) passed away on July 11, 2020, at the age of 84. She was born in Kalamazoo to Egbert and Elsie Weener. Alyce married her beloved husband, Glenn Osborn in 1957. She was a proud Hope College graduate and taught for 40 years in the Kalamazoo Public School System. She was preceded in death … Continue reading "Alyce Weener ’57 Osborn"
Donald Schreur ’58
Donald Wayne Schreur passed away on July 28, 2020, after faithfully serving his Lord and Savior for almost 91 years. May he rest in peace and rise in glory. Following his wishes, cremation has taken place. Interment will be at Restlawn Memorial Gardens where a private committal service will be held. No visitation is planned. … Continue reading "Donald Schreur ’58"
Emelyn Curlee ’58 Winter
Emelyn M. Winter February 13, 1936 August 16, 2020 Emelyn will be laid to rest next to John in Grand Haven Lake Forest Cemetery.  Age 84, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2020. Emelyn was born in Detroit on February 13, 1936, the daughter of Charles C. and Ruth M. (Long) Curlee. She grew up … Continue reading "Emelyn Curlee ’58 Winter"

1960s

Larry Dykstra ’60
Larry Dale Dykstra, born July 18, 1938, to Jack and Kay Dykstra, passed away on October 10, 2020, at the age of 82. He attended Holland Christian High School and graduated from Hope College; grew up at 14th St and Faith CRC in Holland and later directed choir at Maplewood Church. In 1966, he became … Continue reading "Larry Dykstra ’60"
Lois Griffes ’60 Kortering
Lois Emorene (Griffes) Kortering, age 85, passed away from natural causes on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, in Tarpon Springs, Florida. She was born on July 7, 1934 in Muskegon Heights, MI to Orlon and Olive Griffes (McDonald). She graduated from Muskegon Heights High School in 1952. Her rendition of “Hot Canary” on the fiddle for … Continue reading "Lois Griffes ’60 Kortering"
Ivan “Ike” VanderKolk ’60
Vander Kolk, Ivan “Ike” Ivan “Ike” Vander Kolk, age 81, went home to his Lord and Savior on August 14, 2020, where he was joyfully reunited with his son Brent. Ike was preceded in death by parents, Nelson and Marian, son Brent, and brother Roger. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 56 … Continue reading "Ivan “Ike” VanderKolk ’60"
Thomas Bos ’61
Thomas G. Bos, husband, father, step-father, grandfather, businessman, Rotarian and captain passed away at his home in Malibu, California at the age of 81 on July 27, 2020. Thomas was born on March 8, 1939 in Holland, Michigan and married the love of his life, Jane, on August 16, 1991. Thomas brightened the day of … Continue reading "Thomas Bos ’61"
Sally Lou Houtman ‘61 Shimp
Sally Lou Shimp, age 81, of Holland, moved to heaven on Thursday, July 30, 2020. Born and raised in Holland, to Neal and Dorothy Houtman, Sally attended Holland High School and Eastern Michigan University. Sally worked at U of M Medical Center and in St. Joseph as a Psych OT. Growing up, Sally attended First … Continue reading "Sally Lou Houtman ‘61 Shimp"
Elmer Veldheer ’61
Elmer Veldheer, 90, died peacefully in his sleep on June 10, 2020 after a long battle with dementia at American House of Holland. Elmer was a retired 5th grade teacher who loved kids and Wheel of Fortune. After retiring he returned to his passions for farming, hunting, and fixing things. Elmer never passed up a … Continue reading "Elmer Veldheer ’61"
Peter Hsu ’62
Peter M. Hsu, Age 81, passed away July 30, 2020. Born July 20, 1939 in Xiamen (Amoy), China, he graduated from The Diocesan Boys’ School in 1958 in Hong Kong. He emigrated from Hong Kong to the United States in 1958. Peter earned his BA from Hope College in Holland, Michigan in 1962. After earning … Continue reading "Peter Hsu ’62"
Jeffrey Jones ’62
Jeffrey J Jones, 79, died peacefully on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, with his wife Susan at his side in their Log Harbor, Lake Home in Okeechobee, Florida. Jeff was born on July 23, 1940 to Raymond and Sarah (Fowler) Jones in Warren, OH. He graduated from Charles F. Brush High School in 1958 and earned … Continue reading "Jeffrey Jones ’62"
Karen Coster ’62 Marter
Karen Marter, age 80, passed away peacefully August 2020 due to cancer. Karen was a member of the SYV Hiking Group for 16 years. She was also a gourmet cook, a dog lover, a hostess extraordinaire and a gardener with a ‘bright green thumb”. Karen was born in Holland Michigan; graduated from Lyndonville CHS in … Continue reading "Karen Coster ’62 Marter"
James Staple ’64
Staple, James Allan 78, passed away peacefully in his home in Holland, MI on August 22. He is survived by his wife Louise (Garter); children Rebecca (Matthew) McFarland, Elizabeth McKenzie, David (Marta) Staple, former son-in-law Robert McKenzie; grandchildren Rachel and Maggie McFarland, Lilly McKenzie, Ramona and James Staple; sisters Jeanne (Frank) Klobucher, Joanne (Mike) Prince, … Continue reading "James Staple ’64"
Thompson “Bill” “Smitty” Smith ’65
T. William Smith February 1, 1943 August 5, 2020 Thompson William Smith (a.k.a. “Smitty” and “Bill Smith”) was born on February 1, 1943 in Flushing, New York. He was a musician, teacher, wood worker, adventurer, sailor, husband, and friend. At the age of 77, he died on August 5, 2020. As the youngest of three … Continue reading "Thompson “Bill” “Smitty” Smith ’65"
Karen Ward ’66 Jechoutek
Karen Margaret Jechoutek, of Midland, passed away June 23, 2020, in Austria. She was born May 19, 1944, in Marquette, Mich. to Gilbert and Alice (Peterson) Ward, and soon after moved to Midland with her family. Early on, she accompanied her family on trips to Europe to visit Swedish and British relatives. She attended Hope College, … Continue reading "Karen Ward ’66 Jechoutek"
Sandy Timmer ’66 Plakke
Sandra Kay Plakke, “ Sandy,” maiden name Timmer, was born July 6, 1943, died August 2, 2020, of Lewy body dementia. She was 77 years old. Sandy was born in Ypsilanti, MI, while her father was working at the Willow Run Bomber Plant. After the war, her family moved back to their home town of … Continue reading "Sandy Timmer ’66 Plakke"
Melvin Smith ’68
Melvin D. Smith, 73, of Granger, Indiana, passed away suddenly at home on Aug. 3, 2020. Mr. Smith was born on Sept. 20, 1946, in Hicksville, Ohio, to the late Virgil and Pauline (Warstler) Smith. Mel married his loving wife, Jane (Powell) Smith, on April 20, 1974, in South Bend. She survives in Granger. In addition to his wife of 46 … Continue reading "Melvin Smith ’68"
Richard “Doug” Dixon ’69
Doug was born in Tulsa, OK, and raised in Falls Church, VA. He attended McLean High School and Hope College in Holland, MI. He lived in Silver Spring, MD for 30 years and the time of his death was a resident of North Beach, MD. Prior to retirement he had a career in computer sales Doug was always helpful to … Continue reading "Richard “Doug” Dixon ’69"
Loren “Jack” Ligtenberg ’69
Jack Ligtenberg passed on to glory on September 27th, 2020. Born on February 17th, 1947 in Holland, Michigan, to the late Fred and Beatrice (Bosscher) Ligtenberg. He graduated from Three Oaks High School in Three Oaks, Michigan. He received a B.A. from Hope College and an M.S from Western Michigan University. Most of his working career was … Continue reading "Loren “Jack” Ligtenberg ’69"

1970s

Stephen Van Pelt ’71
On June 11, 2020, Steve passed away at St. Helena Hospital, St. Helena, California. He died of long term complications resulting from prior cancer surgeries. Steve was 71 years old and is survived by his wife, Susan Gearey Van Pelt, his sister, Susan F. Van Pelt of Palm Beach, Florida, his mother in law Jeanne … Continue reading "Stephen Van Pelt ’71"
William Hill-Alto ’72
William L. Hill-Alto of Roswell, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home on June 25, 2020. Bill was born on Jan. 24, 1950, in Putnam, Connecticut, to Viola (Honkanen) and John Alto. Bill graduated in 1968 from Roy C. Ketcham High School in Wappingers Falls, New York, and in 1972 from Hope College in Holland, Michigan. … Continue reading "William Hill-Alto ’72"
Lawrence Smith ’74
Dr. Lawrence R. Smith, 68, of West Olive passed away July 9, 2020 at his home. Larry graduated from Wadsworth High School in Ohio. He served his undergraduate at Hope College in Holland, MI before returning to Ohio to attend The Ohio State University Medical School. Larry completed his internship and residency in emergency medicine … Continue reading "Lawrence Smith ’74"
August “Gus” Lukow Jr ’76
August “Gus” Louis Lukow Jr. died on August 18, 2020, in Frederick, MD, at the age of 66 after an eighteen-month battle with cancer. He leaves behind his wife, Janet Lynne Lukow (nee Lupkes); his daughter and son-in-law, Robyn Anne and Michael John Monaco; and his beloved grandson, Thomas Michael Monaco of Frederick, MD. Gus … Continue reading "August “Gus” Lukow Jr ’76"
Charity Priest ’77 Johnson
Charity Louise Johnson, 65, of Grant, formerly of Elkhart and Goshen, Indiana, passed away suddenly on September 11, 2020 at home. She was born on April 26, 1955 to Peter and Janice (Hamilton) Priest in Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from North Vigo High School, Terre Haute, Indiana, in 1973 and attended Hope College, Indiana University … Continue reading "Charity Priest ’77 Johnson"

1980s

Joseph Welch ’80
Joseph Francis Welch September 13, 1957 September 18, 2020 Traverse City, Michigan.  Joseph Francis Welch passed away peacefully on September 18, 2020 in Traverse City, Michigan, surrounded by his loving family. “Today is full of memories of a brother laid to rest. And every single one of them is filled with happiness.” Joe Welch was … Continue reading "Joseph Welch ’80"
Jay Lindell ’81
Jay Roger Lindell graduated into glory on July 8, 2020, following a 19- month journey with brain cancer. Jay was born in Naperville, IL to Donna and Gerald Lindell. Jay graduated from Naperville Central in 1977, and went on to attend Hope College, graduating in 1981. He later went to Western Theological Seminary, graduating with … Continue reading "Jay Lindell ’81"

1990s

Rhonda Mullins ’91 Brewer
Rhonda Kay Brewer, age 51, passed away at home of Metastatic Breast Cancer on August 25, 2020. Rhonda was born on March 1, 1969, in DeKalb, Illinois. She graduated from Fond du Lac High School in 1987, and went on to graduate from Hope College in Holland, Michigan, where she was an active member of … Continue reading "Rhonda Mullins ’91 Brewer"
Michelle “Shelly” Kramer ’91 Cornelius
Michelle “Shelly” Kramer Cornelius, age 51, passed away Sunday, September 27, 2020 in Wisconsin where she lived. She was a graduate of Reeths-Puffer High School and Hope College. Shelly enjoyed spending time at the beach, golfing and time with her family. SURVIVORS include her husband, Dave; two children, Carly and Cody Cornelius; mother, Marsha (Terry) Rutherford; … Continue reading "Michelle “Shelly” Kramer ’91 Cornelius"
Kristen Kingma ’92 DeWitt
Kristen DeWitt, age 49, of Holland, died by suicide after a yearlong battle with severe depression on Saturday, October 3, 2020. She is survived by her husband of 28 years, Kelly; her children, Katelyn, Ryan, and Nathan; her mother, Joyce Kingma; her siblings, Craig and Beth Kingma, Dave and Lisa Kingma, Lynn and Kevin Cole, … Continue reading "Kristen Kingma ’92 DeWitt"
Mary Ann Pilon ’95 Dutmers
Mary Ann Dutmers, devout Christian, devoted wife, wonderful mother, dedicated educator, died Thursday, February 13, 2020 at her home in Greenville at the age of 48. She was born January 10, 1972 in Flint, the daughter of James and Ann (Stevenson) Pilon.  On December 28, 1996, she married David Dutmers.  Mary Ann taught at Greenville Middle School for more than 24 years.  She loved … Continue reading "Mary Ann Pilon ’95 Dutmers"
Jason Currie ’96
Jason Saunders Currie, a loving father, son, brother, uncle, loyal friend, and life warrior, passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 2, 2020. To those who knew him, Jason was strong, funny, enthusiastic, compassionate and extremely kindhearted. He made an impact on every person he met and will be greatly missed. Jason’s heart was immense, and his … Continue reading "Jason Currie ’96"

2000s

Matthew Handzo ’00
HANDZO, MATTHEW SCOTT, ascended to be in his mother’s arms again July 17, 2020. He was 42 years of age living in Savannah, Georgia. Born on November 4, 1977 in Rochester, Michigan to Richard and the Late Judy Handzo (nee Tazza); proud father of Isabelle; dearest brother of Derek (Erin) Handzo; loving uncle of Liam … Continue reading "Matthew Handzo ’00"
Brent Zendler ’08
Brent Michael Zendler December 14, 1985 August 03, 2020 ZENDLER, Brent Michael With deepest sorrow, we announce that Brent Zendler, age 34, passed away unexpectedly Monday, August 3, 2020 at his home in Salt Lake City. Those who knew Brent, even just a little, lost a shining light in their lives. Brent will be missed … Continue reading "Brent Zendler ’08"

Sympathy to

William Cohen
Born in Los Angeles, at age 10 William (Bill) Cohen moved with his mother and younger sister to New York City, and thereafter always considered himself a New Yorker. As a youth, his mother sent him to communist youth camps (notably WoChiCa, Workers’ Children’s Camp), and he went on to become part of the Communist … Continue reading "William Cohen"
Dianna Machiela
She was a graduate of Allegan High School and worked for over 20 years as a Payroll Coordinator for Hope College. Dianna loved the outdoors and spent much of her time biking, kayaking, gardening, camping, and traveling. She and her husband Brian just celebrated 38 years of marriage on July 31st. She is survived by … Continue reading "Dianna Machiela"
Donna Van Hoven
Donna May (Brumels) Van Hoven, age 87, peacefully went home to be with her Savior early in the morning on Tuesday, June 16 at American House of Holland. She was born at home on July 23, 1932 in Grand Rapids to Bill and Stella Brumels. On June 18, 1954 she married Ron Van Hoven. They … Continue reading "Donna Van Hoven"