Obituaries (Miriam's Family)

This is my Obituaries page.  Here you will find obituaries, death and funeral notices, and the occasional biographical or news article about deceased family members.  They are all listed alphabetically by last name (surname).  Women's obituaries are listed under their maiden name.  My direct ancestors (including some adoptive and step-ancestors) are marked with an asterisk (*).  I have hyperlinked the names of those survivors who later died, and who also have an obituary listed on this page.

Obituaries are printed exactly as found in the newspapers...with bold fonts, indentations, and all spelling and grammatical errors.  These errors, along with any other necessary information are noted in [italicized brackets].  It seems to be typical about a hundred years ago and earlier that proper nouns were not fully capitalized, i.e. "Kalamazoo avenue", "Greenwood cemetery", etc.  Street names were also hyphenated: "Livingston-blvd.", "Jefferson-av.", "Cedar-st.", etc.  To protect the privacy of living persons, I have edited some of the modern obits to omit the names of survivors who are known to, or may possibly, be living.

(Click on any graphic of this bouquet of roses to bring you back to this table.)

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B

Arthur Barber
(1907 - 1980)

ARTHUR BARBER
  
Services were held Tuesday [28 October 1980] for Arthur Barber, 73, of 3876 N. Oak St [sic], Metamora.
    Mr [sic] Barber, a retired employee of Anderson Safeway, died Saturday [25 October 1980] at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak.
    He was born in Lapeer on Jan [sic] 11, 1907, the son of Orlando and Mary Jane Friendberg [sic] Barber.
    He is survived by his wife, Agnes; a daughter; 2 stepsons; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 2 brothers, James Barber of Columbiaville and Alexander Barber of Lapeer; and a sister, Mrs [sic] Clara Reynolds of Lapeer.
    The Rev [sic] Louis Wislocki officiated at Muir Brothers Funeral Home in Lapeer.  Burial was in Metamora Cemetery.  (from a Lapeer, Lapeer County, Michigan-area newspaper, unknown page)

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Clara May (Barber) Everson Reynolds
(1901 - 1989)

Clara Reynolds
--Lapeer

    Clara Reynolds, 87, of Lapeer died Jan. 13, 1989 at the Lapeer Regional Hospital.
    She was born to Orlando and Mary (Fredenburg) Barber on Oct. 14, 1901 in Lapeer.
    Mrs. Reynolds worked in the Dietary Department of the Lapeer County General Hospital retiring in 1971.
    She is survived by one son; three daughters; several grandchildren; one brother, Alex Barber of Blue Springs, Missouri; nieces and nephews.
    Services were Monday at the Muir Brothers Funeral Home, Lapeer.  The Rev. Canon Yung-Hsuan Chou officiated.  Burial was in the Stiles Cemetery.  (from a Lapeer, Lapeer County, Michigan-area newspaper, January 1989, unknown page)

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James Albert Barber, Sr.
(1903 - 1983)

Columbiaville

BARBER, James A. --
4718 Fourth Street, age 80, died Tuesday, May 24, 1983, at the Marlette Community Hospital.  Funeral services will be held 2 PM Friday, May 27, 1983, at the Baird-Newton Funeral Home, Columbiaville, Pastor Robert Harman officiating.  Burial in Woodlawn Cemetery.  Mr. Barber was born in Lapeer, March 17, 1903.  He was retired from Traver Sales & Service of Columbiaville.  Surviving are: [his] wife; 2 sons; 3 daughters; 2 step-daughters; sister, Clara Reynolds of Lapeer; brother, Alex Barber of River Rouge, Louisiana; 18 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren.  BAIRD-NEWTON FUNERAL HOME, Columbiaville (from a Lapeer, Lapeer County, Michigan-area newspaper, May 1983, unknown page)

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James W. Barber *
(1839 - 1912)

BURIED AT MT. MORRIS

James Barber Came ti [sic] Michigan When 16 Years Old.
(From a Journal Correspondent)

       Mt. Morris, May 22,-- The funeral of James Barber was held at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Lavina Streeter in Mt. Morris township Monday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock, Rev. N. D. Potter of the Baptist church officiating.  Burial was made in the Mt. Morris cemetery.
       James Barber was born in England, residing there until 16 years of age when he came to Michigan where he has since made his home [sic - records prove he came to Canada first, then emigrated to Michigan about 1876].  In early life he united with the English Baptist church.  He married 48 years ago to Elizabeth Betsy Cole, who with eight of the 10 children born to them, is left:  John of Ovid, James and Alex of Lansing:  Mrs. Lavina Streeter of Mt. Morris: Mrs. Anna Hudson of Millington: Mrs. Caroline Smith of Otisville: Mrs. Clara Goodwin of Oxford, and Mrs. Rose Eaton of Flint [James was preceded in death by his sons Orlando and Benjamin]
(from The Flint [Michigan] Daily Journal, Thursday, 23 May 1912, pg. 2)

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Orlando Barber
(1868 - 1910)

    Orlando Barber, who died recently, leaves, besides his wife and five [1, 2, 3, 4, 5] little children, a father, James Barber of Lansing, formerly of this city [Orlando's mother, Elizabeth, is oddly missing from this death notice.](from The Lapeer County [Michigan] Press, pg. 4)

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Nellie (Barsema) Breen
(c. 1891 - 1947)

MRS. NELLIE BREEN
   
Mrs. Nellie Breen, aged 56, of 1036 Cleveland Ave., SW, Grand Rapids, sister of Millard Bush of Coopersville, died early Saturday morning at her home.  Also surviving are another brother, Peter Barsema; her husband; two daughters; one son; six grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Sena Holwerda and Mrs. Nick VanderZee.
    Funeral services were held at 2 o'clock at the Eighth Reformed church in Grand Rapids and burial was in Restlawn Memorial Park.  (from The Coopersville [Michigan] Observer, Thursday, 24 July 1947, unknown page)

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Johanna Bos,
a.k.a. Josephine (Bush) DeVries *
(1885 - 1946)

DE VRIES--Mrs. Josephine DeVries, aged 61, passed away Wednesday morning at her home, 1022 Caulfield-av., S. W.  Surviving are her husband, George J.; one daughter, Catherine; four sons Benjamin, Adrian and Calvin, of Grand Rapids, and Millard of Denver, Colo.; two grandchildren; two brothers, Millard Bush of Coopersville and Peter Barsema, and four sisters, Mrs. William Geldersma, Mrs. Sena Holwerda, Mrs. Jenny Vander Zee and Mrs. Nellie Breen.  Mrs. DeVries reposes at the Joldersma & Son Funeral Home, 832 Grandville-av., S. W., where funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. John Gritter officiating.  Burial in Garfield Park cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Wednesday, 27 March 1946, pg. 22)

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Millard Bush
(1887 - 1952)

Millard Bush Dies Suddenly While On Alaskan Cruise
   
Millard Bush, 65, for the past 38 years a business man in Coopersville, died unexpectedly early Friday morning aboard ship, while on a cruise to Alaska.  Death was attributed to a heart attack.  He was the sixth member of the Coopersville Reformed church to be claimed by death in less than two months.
    The first news of his death came in a telegram sent by Rev. Lewis Benes, director of the tour, to Rev. G. J. Rozeboom, pastor of the church.
    His death cut short a pleasure cruise to Alaska.  Mr. and Mrs. Bush had left Chicago, September 5 on a tour sponsored by the Reformed Church in America.  Approximately 100 persons were on the tour, which took them to Banff, Lake Louise, and thence to Seattle, where they embarked for Alaska via "The Inside Passage."  They had gone to Vancouver and were one day out of that port enroute to Prince Rupert.  Thursday evening the group had had a hymn sing aboard the S. S. "Chilcotin".  Mr. Bush arose about 4 a. m. in order to enjoy the beauty of the early morning.  He then retired again and death came about 6 o'clock.  A seaplane was summoned to Point Alert, a small fishing village along the coast of British Columbia and the body was removed from the ship.  Mrs. Bush left immediately for home, and the body followed by plane.
    Mr. Bush was born July 17, 1887, near Lamont.  He moved, as a child, with his mother to McBain, later returning to Coopersville.  He was married to Miss Hattie Laug in 1915.
    For 38 years he was in the lumber business in Coopersville.  He started in business as a partner with Wm. Van Allsburg, later purchasing Mr. Van Allsburg's interest in the firm.  For the past few years his three sons have been associated with him in the business.
    Mr. Bush had served his community for several terms on the Village Council, and was active in his own profession as a director of the Grand Rapids Reserve Supply Co.  He was also a member of the Coopersville Chamber of Commerce; the Coopersville Reformed church, and the Men's Adult Bible Class.
    Surviving are his wife, Hattie; three sons, Raymond, Howard and Ernest, all of Coopersville; nine grandchildren; two sisters; Mrs. Jennie VanderZee and Mrs. Sena Doornbos, both of Grand Rapids; and one brother, Peter Barsma [sic - Barsema], also of Grand Rapids.
    The body was brought to the Throop Funeral Home, and later taken to the residence where it lay in state until the time of the services which were held at 2:30 Tuesday afternoon at the Reformed church, with the Rev. G. J. Rozeboom officiating.  Burial was in the Coopersville cemetery.
    Local business places were closed during the services as a tribute to one who had served his community well. (from The Coopersville [Michigan] Observer, Thursday, 18 September 1952, unknown page)

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John Dennis Concidine *
(1854 - 1925)

CONCIDINE – John D. Concidine, formerly of Byron Center, died Friday, Sept. 24 [sic – Friday was the 25th], at DeKalb, Ill. [sic – Illinois death records index indicate he died in Afton Twp., DeKalb Co., Illinois].   Burial will be made Monday at 2:30 p. m. in Winchester cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Saturday, 26 September 1925, pg. 20)

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Nellie May (Concidine) Holst *
(1883 - 1953)

HOLST - Mrs. Nellie M. Holst, aged 69, of Coopersville, passed away Friday at the Burton Heights Osteopathic Hospital.  Surviving are two daughters; seven grandchildren; three brothers [including]  Manley Concidine of DeKalb, Ill., [and] Lloyd [Concidine] of Waukegan, Wis., and the step-mother, Mrs. Minnie Harnady, of Citrus Heights, Calif.  Mrs. Holst will repose at the Throop Funeral Home, where funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Interment in Coopersville Cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Saturday, 30 May 1953, pg. 12)

Read about Nellie May Concidine's life and family here.

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Anna (Crothers) York *
(1825 - 1904)

[Note:  Crothers was also spelled Crathers.  Over time, it evolved into its present spelling, Cruthers.]

IN MEMORIAM

    ANNA CRATHERS was born December 11, 1825 in Erie county, New York; died February 14, 1904.
    She passed away Sunday, at 2 o'clock at the home of her daughter [not clear which daughter] in Goodrich, where she had been staying a few days.  She was one of a large family of children, only two sisters [1, 2] survive her.
    In 1846 she was united in marriage to John H. York of Clarence [New York]; seven children were born to this union.  They came to Michigan in 1860, where they bought the farm that has been their home ever since, where they suffered the privations of a new country and where their children were born and reared to manhood and womanhood, five of whom survive her, Mrs. Marium Frick of Ortonville, Jeremiah York of near Goodrich, N. Y. [sic - Michigan], Mrs. Ella Dillenbeck and Mrs. Matilda Watkins, both of Goodrich, and James, the oldest [sic - youngest] son, who has lived on the old farm since the father passed away, five years ago.
    About 50 years ago she was converted and united with the M. E. [Methodist Episcopal] church, living a faithful christian [sic], ever striving to uphold the banner of Christ.
    She was a good mother, a kind neighbor.  Her work is finished and the Lord has called her home.  What is our loss is her gain.
    "Asleep, in Jesus blessed, from which none ever wakes to weep." --Com.  (from a Flint, Genesee County, Michigan-area newspaper, February 1904, unknown page)

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Nancy Amanda (Crothers) Phelps
(1839 - 1925)

OBITUARY

    Nancy A. Cruthers was born in New York, Nov. 8th, 1839 and passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Milton Drake, 506 E Cass street, August 7th, 1925, at the age of 85 years.  She was married to John S. Phelps in 1865 [sic - 1864], who departed this life 38 years ago.  She leaves to mourn her loss three daughters, thirteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren and a wide circle of friends.  Those attending the funeral were from Linwood, Flint, Lansing, Goodrich.
    The funeral was held Monday morning at 11 o'clock at the home of her daughter, the Rev. G. S. Northrup  officiating and interment was made in Mt. Rest cemetery.  (from a St. John's , Clinton County, Michigan-area newspaper, August 1925, unknown page)

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D

Berber "Barbara" J. (DeJong) Valk *
(1858 - 1934)

VALK--Mrs. Barbara Valk, aged 76, widow of the late James Valk, passed away Friday evening, June 1, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Jennie VanderWal, 1528 Pine-av., N. W.  Surviving are one son, William, and another daughter, Mrs. Gertrude Ysseldyke, 16 grandchildren.  Funeral services Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at West Leonard Street Christian Reformed church.  Interment in Greenwood cemetery.  Please omit flowers.  Arrangements by John Keukelaar.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Saturday, 2 June 1934, pg. 18)

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Adrian "Ed" DeVries
(1916 - 2007)

DE VRIES -- Adrian "Ed" DeVries, aged 90, of Grand Rapids, passed away January 6, 2007.  He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Josephine DeVries; his beloved wife of 53 years, Ruth; brothers, Benjamin, Millard and Calvin; his sister, Catherine Gebben; and his grandson, Aaron Robbins.  Adrian is survived by his children...; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.  He faithfully served in the Army during WW II.  Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 10 at 11 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield NE where relatives and friends are invited to meet with his family on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 PM.  For those who wish, memorial contributions to St. Jude Childrens' [sic] Research Hospital are appreciated.  You may read more about Adrian's life, share a favorite photo or memory or sign the register by visiting www.lifestorynet.com (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, January 2007, unknown page)

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Benjamin J. DeVries
(1911 - 1966)

DeVRIES -- Benjamin J. DeVries, aged 54, of 1121 Brookview NE, passed away early Thursday morning at Blodgett Memorial Hospital.  He was an employee of Jervis Corp., Grandville.  Surviving are his wife; one daughter; one son; two grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Clarence (Catherine) Gebben of Wyoming [Michigan]; two brothers, Adrian of Grand Rapids, Calvin of Ellwood City, Pa.  Mr. DeVries reposes at the VanStrien-Alman Mortuary, 1833 Plainfield Ave, NE, where funeral services will be held Saturday 2:30 p.m.  Interment Garfield Park Cemetery, Elder R. H. Hartwell of Central Seventh Day Adventist Church officiating.  The family will meet their friends at the mortuary from 7 to 9 Thursday and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 Friday.  In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, Leukemia Research Helmer Building, 21 Ottawa NW, Grand Rapids, Mich.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Thursday, 24 February 1966, pg. 45)

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Calvin J. DeVries
(1924 - 2003)

DEVRIES -- Calvin J. DeVries, aged 78, of Ellwood City, PA, formerly of Grand Rapids died May 14.  Samuel Teolis Funeral Home 724-758-3222  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Friday, 16 May 2003, online)

CALVIN J. DeVRIES
DeVries, 78, served as Tech 5 in World War II

    Mr. Calvin J. DeVries, 78 of Ellwood City, died Wednesday, May 14, 2003 in the Ellwood City Hospital emergency room.
    He was born Dec. 23, 1924, in Grand Rapids, Mich., to the late George and Josephine Bush DeVries.
    He was first married to Margaret Neve DeVries, who died in 1969.  He was later married to [his second wife], who survives.
    Mr. DeVries was employed for 20 years at National Plumbing Fixtures.  In February 1967, he went to work for Halstead-Mitchell in Zelienople, until his retirement in August 1988.
    Mr. DeVries graduated from the Vo-Tech school in Grand Rapids, where he studied carpentry.
    A U.S. Army veteran of World War II, he served as a Tech 5 with the Headquarter Battery 766th from July 14, 1943, to Feb. 5, 1946.
    Mr. DeVries also served as a field lineman in the European African and Middle Eastern Theatres, earning two Bronze Battle Stars.
    He was a member of the Lillyville Church of God and enjoyed woodworking and gardening.
    In addition to his wife, Mr. DeVries is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law; a stepdaughter; a son and daughter-in-law; a stepson; a brother, Adrian DeVries of Grand Rapids, Mich.; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
    He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Kelly DeVries, in 1995; a sister, Catherine Gebbens [sic - Gebben]; and two brothers, Mel and Ben DeVries.
    Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. tomorrow and from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Saturday in the Samuel Teolis Funeral Home, 309 Spring Ave., Ellwood City.
    The Rev. Clifford Reynolds will officiate.
    Interment will be in the Lillyville Church of God Cemetery.
    The Veterans Honor Guard is asked to meet at the funeral home by 10:30 a.m. Saturday to conduct full military rites.
    Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. DeVries' name to the Lillyville Church of God Lighthouse Fund.  (from The Ellwood City [Pennsylvania] Ledger, Saturday, 17 May 2003, online)

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Catherine Josephine (DeVries) Gebben
(c. 1919 - 2002)

GEBBEN
02/14/02

Catherine Josephine Gebben, aged 83, of Wyoming [Michigan], went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, February 12, 2002.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Gebben and her son, David Thomas Gebben.  She is survived by her [two] children; nine grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; one great great grand child; her brothers, Adrian DeVries of Grand Rapids and Calvin DeVries of Pennsylvania; and many nieces and nephews.  Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Saturday at Cook Memorial Chapel (4235 Prairie St. SW east building).  The family will meet with relatives and friends 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Cook Funeral Home, Grandville west building.  Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan.  Those unable to attend the funeral service or visitation may sign the familys [sic]  memory book at www.cookfuneralhome.com(from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Thursday, 14 February 2002, online)

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Jarig Egbert Binnes DeVries,
a.k.a. George Edward Benjamin DeVries *
(1887 - 1959)

DE VRIES--George DeVries, aged 72, of 1022 Caulfield Ave., SW, passed away suddenly Sunday morning.  Surviving are three sons, Benjamin and Adrian (Ed) of Grand Rapids and Calvin of Ellwood City, Pa., one daughter, Mrs. Clarence (Catherine) Gebben, nine grandchildren [sic - no punctuation] one brother Henry, one sister, Mrs. Henry Niemeyer, two half-brothers, Harry and Walter Hoogstra, all of Grand Rapids, one half sister, Mrs. Vern (Lena) Anderson, of Georgia.  Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Joldersma Funeral Home, 832 Grandville Ave., SW., Leroy Whitney officiating.  Interment Garfield Park Cemetery.  Mr. DeVries reposes at the funeral home, where relatives and friends may meet the family Monday and Tuesday evening 7 to 9, Wednesday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9. (from The Grand Rapids {Michigan] Herald, Monday, 23 February 1959, pg. 18)

Read about George Edward Benjamin DeVries' family and life here.

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Millard "Mel" DeVries
(1913 - 1957)

DE VRIES -- Millard DeVries, aged 43, of Denver, Colo., met accidental death Feb. 4 at Vera Cruz, Mexico.  He is survived by his father, George DeVries of Grand Rapids; three brothers, Ben and Adrian (Ed) of Grand Rapids, Calvin of Ellwood City, Pa.; one sister, Mrs. Clarence (Catherine) Gebben of Grand Rapids.  Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Joldersma and Son Funeral Home, 832 Grandville Ave., SW., Rev. Leroy Whitney officiating.  Interment Garfield Park Cemetery.  Mr. DeVries will repose at the chapel from Wednesday morning until time of services where relatives and friends may meet the family, 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p. m.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Wednesday, 13 February 1957, pg. 18)

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Trijntje "Katherine" Gerrits (Dolstra) Valk *
(1826 - 1912)

Mrs. Catherine Valk
    Mrs. Catherine Valk, aged [illegible – should be 85], died Sunday at the home of her son, James Valk, in Walker township.  Funeral services will be held at 2 o’clock this afternoon at Coldbrook Christian Reformed church. 
(from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Tuesday, 21 May 1912, pg. 2)

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Dolores Elaine (Duetscher) Valk
(1932 - 2004)

Dolores E. Valk
VALK -
Dolores E. Valk, age 71, of Wyoming [Michigan], went to be with her Lord on Friday, April 23, 2004.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert J. Valk.  She will be lovingly remembered by her [six] children; her 15 grandchildren and four great grandchildren; her brothers; her brother-in-law; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.  Dolores was first and foremost a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.  Because of her love for sewing, Dolores enjoyed working at Jo-Ann Fabrics during her later years of life.  The funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Cook Memorial Chapel, (East Building) 4235 Prairie St. SW with Rev. Jack Lynn of Central Wesleyan Church officiating. The family will meet with relatives and friends on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Cook Funeral Home, Grandville (West Building).  Memorial contributions may be made to the Mel Trotter Ministries.  If you are unable to attend the service or visitation, please sign the family's memory book at www.cookfuneralhome.com  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Sunday, 25 April 2004, online)

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Florene M. (Dutton) Robbins
(1854 - 1911)

    Mrs. Lee Robbins died Thursday evening after a long illness due to paralysis.  the funeral will be held from the residence Sunday at 1:30 and will be conducted by Rev. Johnson assisted by Rev. Camp.  (from Arlington [Washington] Times, Saturday, 27 May 1911, unknown page)

    The funeral of Mrs. Lee Robbins occurred from the residence south of town Sunday last, Revs. Johnson and Camp officiating, the former preaching the funeral sermon from the text.  "Come unto Me."  Mat. 11: 28.  Interment occurred in Harwood cemetery, the pallbearers being W. W. Woods, Geo. Hovey, C. E. Farrell, Peter Funk, W. G. Letson and Wm. Quackenbush.  A large number of friends from Bryant, Edgecomb and Arlington were in attendance.  Florine [sic] M. Robbins (nee Dutton) was born in Barry county, Mich., June 23, 1854; died in Arlington, Wash., May 25, 1911, at the age of 57 years, she was married to Lee Robbins in Oceana county, Mich., Feby. 29, 1872.  The couple came to Washington five years ago, since when they have resided at Arlington and in vicinity, where [the] deceased formed a large circle of friends, won by her unselfish and exemplary life.  She is survived by her husband and two sons, Perry L. and Odell, the latter 12 years old; and a daughter, Mrs. Lotta L. Nichols.  One child died in infancy.  (from Arlington [Washington] Times, Saturday, 3 June 1911, unknown page)

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Mary Jane (Fredenburg) Barber Smith Keller *
(1872 - 1962)

Mary J. Keller
   
Mrs. Mary J. (Barber) Keller, 89, of 318 Nightengale, Lapeer, died Monday at the Lapeer Hospital after an extended illness.
    Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2 p.m. at Muir Brothers Funeral Home, Lapeer, with the Rev. Harold McMullen officiating.  Burial will be in Stiles Cemetery.
    Mrs. Keller was born Nov. 29, 1872, in Macomb County, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sylvester Fredenburg.  She married Orlando Barber in 1888 [sic - 1894].  He died in 1910.  She married Leir [sic - Levi]  Keller in 1922, who died in 1945.  She had lived in the Lapeer area all her life.
    Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Mary J. Dunlap, with whom she lived, and Mrs. Clara Reynolds, both of Lapeer; three sons, James Barber of Columbiaville, Alex Barber of Lapeer and Arthur Barber of Metamora; one stepson, Archie L. Keller, of Flint; one brother, Frank Fredenburg, of Battle Creek, 23 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.  (from a Lapeer, Lapeer Co., Michigan-area newspaper, c. 28 or 29 August 1962, unknown page)

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John Peter Glashower, Jr.
(1908 - 1997)

John Glashower
John Glashower, aged 89, of Grandville.  Matthysse & Kuiper, 534-8656  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Wednesday, 29 October 1997, online)

John Peter Glashower
John Peter Glashower, former resident of Cedar Springs and Punta Gorda, FL was called home to Glory on his 89th birthday, Tuesday, October 28, 1997.  His family and many friends rejoice that he has left his earthly home at Brookcrest Christian Nursing Home and now resides in his heavenly home.  He was born October 28, 1908 in Whitinsville, MA.  John leaves behind his children; nine grandchildren; his brother; sister; sister-in-law, Ruth DeVries; many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Mary Louise (Hoekstra); son, Alan; brothers, Peter and Lewis; sisters-in-law, Nell, Jennie and Kay; brother-in-law, Peter VanderLaan.  Funeral Services will be held Monday at 1 p.m. at the Matthysse & Kuiper Funeral Home, 4145 Chicago Dr., Grandville.  Interment Grandville Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may visit with the family 7 to 9 p.m. on Sunday and 12 to 1 p.m. on Monday preceding the service.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army or Brookcrest Christian Nursing Home.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Sunday, 2 November 1997, online)

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Ida Marie (Gustavson) Holst *
(1861 - 1939)

Mrs. John Holst, 77, Dies in Coopersville
   
COOPERSVILLE, July 3 - Mrs. John Holst, 77, passed away Monday evening at her home here.  She was born in Sweden Oct. 28, 1861, and had lived in this vicinity 50 years.  Mr. and Mrs. Holst were married 59 years last Feb. 6.
     Surviving are the husband; two sons, Alfred of Coopersville and John of Ft. Meyers, Fla.; three daughters, Mrs. Adolf Blankenburg and Mrs. Thomas Klatt of Coopersville and Mrs. John Klinger of Muskegon; 11 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and four nieces.
    She was a member of St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran church in Nunica, and of the ladies aid society of the church.
    Funeral services will be held at the home at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon and in the church in Nunica at 2:30.  The Rev. Walter B. Strandis will officiate.  Burial will be in Coopersville cemetery.  The body reposes at the Kammeraad funeral home here.  (from
The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Tuesday, 4 July 1939, pg. 2)

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Margaret Jane (Herin) Wade Robbins
(1855 - 1932)

    Mrs. Margaret Jane Robbins, 77 years old, died Wednesday at the home of her son, Bert Wade, on the Lake Harbor road, Muskegon, after a two weeks' illness.  She was born in Defiance, Ohio, Jan. 30, 1855.  In 1886 she came from Defiance to Hesperia, where she made her home until 1913, when she went to Retsil, Wash.  During her stay there she spent most of the time in the Veterans' Home.  She came to Muskegon May 31, 1932.
    Mrs. Robbins, formerly Margaret Jane Herrin [sic], was the daughter of James and Elizabeth Herin.  She was married to Seabury Wade in 1874, at Defiance, Ohio.  Mr. Wade died in 1880.
    Eight years later, Mrs. Wade married Benson Robbins.  He died April 11, 1931, at Retsil, Wash.
    Mrs. Robbins was a member of the Methodist church.
    She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Harriet Wade Rowley, of Mt. Vernon, Wash.; one son, Bert Wade, of Muskegon, R. R. 1; one sister, Mrs. Martha Potter, of Banks, Ore.; one brother, J. E. Herrin, of Hesperia; ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
    The funeral was held from the Methodist church in Hesperia with the Rev. William Paulson in charge, at 11:00 a.m. Saturday.  The body was laid to rest in the West cemetery. 
(This obituary was printed after 17 August 1932, probably in a Muskegon [Muskegon Co.] or Hesperia [Oceana Co. or Newaygo Co.], Michigan newspaper, unknown page.)

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Hope Mildred (Hoekstra) Loveland
(1920 - 1968)

LOVELAND--Hope M. (Hoekstra) Loveland, aged 47, of Tacoma, Wash., formerly of Grand Rapids, passed away Wednesday evening.  Surviving are her husband, Vern; two daughters; two son[s], all at home; her father and two sisters, John Hoekstra and Mrs. Ruth DeVries of Grand Rapids, Mrs. John (Mary Lou] Glashower of Cedar Springs.  Services were Friday afternoon at First Presbyterian church, Tacoma.  Interment Mountain [obituary ends - should read "Mount View Memorial Park, Pierce County, Washington](from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Saturday, 13 July 1968, pg. 19)

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John Martin Hoekstra *
(1892 - 1975)

HOEKSTRA -- Mr. John M. Hoekstra, aged 83 of Wyoming Park, passed away Saturday, December 27, 1975 at St. Mary's Hospital.  Surviving are his wife Anna; one [sic - 2] daughter[s] , Mrs. Ruth DeVries of Grand Rapids and Mrs. John (Mary Lou) Glashower of Cedar Springs; ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Maude VanHardesdelt [sic - VanHardesvelt] of Arizona.  Funeral services will be held Tuesday 1 PM at the funeral home with his pastor, the Rev. Leonard Bossenbroek of the Wyoming Park Christian Reformed Church officiating.  Interment Grandville Cemetery.  The family will be at the Grandville Chapel of Cook Funeral Home, 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 Sunday and 7 to 9 Monday.  (from The Grand Rapids {Michigan] Press, Sunday, 28 December 1975, pg. 7-F)

Read about John Martin Hoekstra's family and life here.

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Martin Hoekstra *
(1868 - 1944)

ALLEGAN--Funeral services for Martin Hoekstra, 76, will be held at 2 p. m. Thursday in Gorden funeral residence.  Burial will be in Oakwood cemetery.  Mr. Hoekstra died Tuesday in the home of his daughter, Mrs. Fred Vanhartsveldt [sic - VanHardesvelt] in Detroit.  He was a member of the Presbyterian church and a retired carpenter and decorator.  Surviving besides Mrs. Hartsveldt [sic] are another daughter, Mrs. Grace Kalp [sic - Klap]  of Grand Rapids; two sons, John of Grand Rapids and Lewis [sic - Louis] of Allegan; 10 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.  Mrs. Hoekstra died a year ago.  They had been married 57 years.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Wednesday, 13 December 1944, unknown page)

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Mary Louise (Hoekstra) Glashower
(1923 - 1994)

GLASHOWER -- Mary L. Glashower, aged 70, of Punta Gorda, FL, died May 15, 1994.  Born in Grand Rapids June 5, 1923, moved to Punta Gorda, FL from Grand Rapids in 1977.  She owned and operated a laundromat in Grand Rapids, MI.  Surviving are her husband, John; [two] daughters; son; sister, Ruth DeVries of Grand Rapids, MI; nine grandchildren.  Services will be held at a later date in Grand Rapids, MI.  Memorial contribution to Florida United Methodist Children's Home, P.O. Box 6299, Deltona, FL 32728-6299.  Arrangements by National Cremation Society, Port Charlotte, FL.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Tuesday, 17 May 1994, pg. D7)

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Ruth Lillian (Hoekstra) Valk DeVries *
(1919 - 2001)

DE VRIES
Mrs. Ruth DeVries, aged 82, graduated to glory on Saturday, August 25, 2001, and went to be with her eternal Father.  She is survived by her husband of 53 years; [three] children; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.  Mrs. DeVries was a member of Plainfield United Methodist Church and longtime member of the United Methodist Women, where she served several times as President.  Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Plainfield United Methodist Church, 214 Spencer NE, with her pastor officiating.  Interment in Fairplains Cemetery.  Friends may meet the family at the funeral home on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. and at the church on Wednesday for one hour prior to the service.  Expressions of sympathy may be mailed tot he funeral home or sent via the website.  VAN STRIEN CRESTON CHAPEL  1833 Plainfield NE  Heritage Funeral Service  www.heritagefuneralservice.com (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Monday, 27 August 2001, online)

Read about Ruth Lillian Hoekstra's life and family here.

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Alfred Henry Holst *
1882 - 1952

HOLST - Alfred Henry Holst, aged 70 years, of Coopersville, passed away Sunday evening at his home after a lingering illness.  He is survived by his wife, Nellie; two daughters; seven grandchildren; three sisters, Mrs. Adolph Blankenburg and Mrs. Jennie Klatt, both of Coopersville, Mrs. Duke Rose of Muskegon; one brother, John G. Holst of Fort Meyers, Fla.  Mr. Holst will repose at the Throop Funeral Home where funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2.  Interment Coopersville cemetery under the auspices of Coopersville cemetery under the auspices of [sic] Coopersville Masonic lodge 122, F&AM.  Friends may meet the family Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Monday, 17 November 1952, pg. 31)

Read about Alfred Henry Holst's life and family here.

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John D. Holst*
(1860 - 1940)

John D. Holst, 80
Taken By Death
Monday, Sept. 16
   
This community was shocked this week by the sudden death of one of its old-time residents, John Holst, who has lived in the north part of Ottawa county for 57 years, first at Spring Lake, then on a farm in this vicinity until 1923, when he and his wife moved into town.  They had come from Germany in 1883, and both lived to a good old age, Mrs. Holst having passed away in June, 1939.  Mr. Holtz [sic] was 80 years old and although he had not been in good health for a year or two, he was active up to almost the time of his passing, having been down in town only a few days before.
    He is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Adolf Blankenburg and Mrs. Theodore Klatt, of Coopersville, and Mrs. John Klinger, of Muskegon, two sons, Alfred, of Coopersville, and John, of Fort Myers, Fla.; also by eleven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  He was a member of St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran church at Nunica.  Funeral services will be held at the Kammeraad Funeral Home in this city at 2:30 this (Thursday) afternoon.  Burial will be in the Coopersville cemetery.
    Mr. Holst was in many ways a remarkable man, a splendid example of the better class of people who came from European countries to make America their home, and became real Americans, often even more strongly loyal to their adopted country than a large percentage of those who are born here.  We have known him for the past ten years only, but well enough to know that he will be missed not only by the family and relatives, but by the average person of his acquaintance.  He was a lover of the great outdoors, and for many years he had gone to the north country deer-hunting, the report being that he had not missed a hunting season in a half-century.  He was making his plans to go again this year, and was feeling in better health than usual for a short time before his sudden demise.  The community will join with us in extending our sincerest sympathy to the bereaved afamily [sic](from The Coopersville {Michigan] Observer, Thursday, 19 September 1940, unknown page)

HOLST--John D. Holst, aged 80, of Coopersville, passed away at his home Monday afternoon.  Surviving are three daughters, two sons, eleven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  The body will be returned to the home Wednesday afternoon.  Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 2:30 at the Kammeraad Funeral home.  Interment in Coopersville cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Tuesday, 17 September 1940, pg. 21)

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Orlando Horace Kenfield *
(1872 - 1965)

O. H. Kenfield, Lumberjack, Dies at Age 93
   
Orlando H. Kenfield, 93, of 2783 E. Broadway, Fruitport Township, died at the DeBoer Convalescent Home Thursday after an illness of three months.
     Born Jan. 27, 1872 in Hart, and a resident most of his life in the Hesperia area, Mr. Kenfield came to Muskegon in 1924.  He was married to Lula Kimball Robbins here Dec. 10, 1928.  Mrs. Kenfield died in 1950.  He was a lumberjack many years and in the early years also was employed at Continental Motors Corp.  He was a self-employed carpenter and mason before he retired in 1948.
     He is survived by four stepsons, Lloyd Robbins of Comstock Park, William B. Robbins of Conklin, Angelo Robbins and Donald Robbins of Muskegon, and 14 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. 
(from The Muskegon {Michigan] Chronicle, Friday, 5 February 1965, pg. 22)

KENFIELD, MR. ORLANDO H.
2782 E. Broadway. Frpt., Twp.
The funeral service for Mr. Orlando H. Kenfield will be held Monday afternoon at 3 o'clock at the Lee Funeral Home, the Rev. Verner Kilgrelf, Pastor of Temple Methodist Church, officiating.  Mr. Kenfield will be laid to rest in Fruitport Cemetery.  Friends may call at the Lee Funeral Home.  --Lee  (from The Muskegon {Michigan] Chronicle, Friday, 5 February 1965, pg. 22)

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Mary May Kimball,
a.k.a. Lula (Weaver) Robbins Kenfield *
(1873 - 1950)

Mrs. Kenfield, 77, Ill Long Time, Dies
  
Mrs. Lula Kenfield, 77 years old, 2782 E. Broadway avenue, a Muskegon Heights resident since 1916 after coming here from Newaygo, died yesterday at her home after a long illness.
    Born March 27, 1873, at Newaygo, and formerly Miss Lula Kimball, she was married Dec. 10, 1928, to Orlando H. Kenfield in Muskegon.  She was a member of the Methodist Church of Hesperia.
    She leaves her husband; four sons, Lloyd Robbins of Comstock Park, Grand Rapids; Bryan Robbins, of Conklin, and Angelo and Donald, of Muskegon; 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. 
(from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Thursday, 28 December 1950, pg. 2)

Read more about Mary May Kimball/Lula Weaver's family and life here.

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Thelma H. (Lawrence) Valk
(c. 1913 - 2001)

VALK
08/26/01
Thelma Valk, aged 89, of Wyoming [Michigan].  All services and visitation are Pending.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Sunday, 26 August 2001, online)

VALK
08/27/01
Thelma Valk, aged 89, of Wyoming [Michigan], went home to be with her Lord Friday, August 24, 2001.  She was preceded in death by her husband, James; and sister, Ruth Lawrence.  Surviving are her sisters and brothers; her brothers and sister-in-law, [including] Ted Valk, Bertha Kramer, [and] Robert (Delores) Valk; and many nieces and nephews.  Funeral services will be held Wednesday 11 a.m. at the Cook Memorial Chapel (east building), 4235 Prairie St. SW.  The family will receive relatives and friends Tuesday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Cook Funeral Home, Grandville.  If you are unable to attend the visitation or service please sign the family's Memory Book at www.cookfuneralhome.com.  Memorial contributions may be made to Newhall Baptist Church building fund.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Monday, 27 August 2001, online)

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Garrett "Jerry" Henry Leussenkamp
(1928 - 1983)

LEUSSENKAMP -- Garret H. Leussenkamp, aged 54, resident of Comstock Park, passed away suddenly Wednesday afternoon at Butterworth Hospital.  Surviving are his wife; five sons and four daughters; nine grandchildren; two sisters.  Services will be held Saturday afternoon 1:30 at the Zaagman Memorial Chapel, Rev. Tom Early officiating.  Interment Oak Grove Cemetery.  The family will be at the chapel Friday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9.  Those desiring, may send memorial contributions to the Heart Assoc.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Thursday, 3 March 1983, unknown page)

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Bonnie Mae (Lewis) Hahn
(1905 - 2004)

Bonnie Hahn
HAHN, Bonnie Mae, 98, of Zephyrhills, died November 3, 2004, at Gulfside Hospice House.  Born in Whitehall, Mich., November 24, 1905, she moved to Zephyrhills with her husband, Elmer, who preceded her in death in 1988.  She was also preceded in death by 13 [sic - 12] brothers and sisters [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12].  She was a member of First Presbyterian Church and a charter member of Ladies Auxiliary, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Muskegon Heights, Mich.  She is survived by two daughters; two stepsons; eight grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 11 great-great-grandchildren.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations be made to Gulfside Regional Hospice, Inc., 5008 Mission Square, Zephyrhills, FL  33541.  (from The Tampa [Florida] Tribune, Friday, 5 November 2004, online)

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Donald Lewis
(1901 - 1989)

LEWIS, MR. DONALD
Muskegon

Mr. Donald Lewis, age 88, died Thur. evening at a local hospital.  Mr. Lewis was born April 17, 1901 in Whitehall and had been a life resident of Muskegon.  He married the former Agnes H. Stroebe, Dec. 15, 1939 in Muskegon Hts.  She preceded him in death April 18, 1981.  Mr. Lewis was retired from Lakey Foundry & attended Fellowship Reformed Church.  Surviving are his [two] children; 6 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; his brothers Jim of Muskegon, Horace of W. VA, Dave of Grand Rapids & 2 sisters Mrs. Bert [sic - Bertha] (Louie) Janda of N. Muskegon & Bonnie Hahn of FL.  Services will be held Mon. at 1 PM from The Sytsema Chapel.  Visitation will be Sunday 2-4 & 7-9 PM.  (from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Friday, 28 April 1989, unknown page)

Read about Donald Lewis's life and family here.

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Esther "Ette" Mary (Lewis) Cady Hovey
(1874 - 1930)

Mrs. Loren Hovey Dies After Long Illness
    Mrs. Loren Hovey, 56 years old, died today at her home, 923 Turner Street, after a long illness.  She was born in St. Johns, Mich., June 22, 1874, and came to Muskegon about 20 years ago.
    Her maiden name was Esther Lewis.  Her marriage to Loren Hovey took place in Whitehall, November 28, 1901.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church and of the Royal Neighbors of America.
    Mrs. Hovey is survived by her husband, four sons, Ezra [Cady] of Ravenna, William [Cady], Charles and Alvin Hovey of Muskegon; four daughters, Mrs. James Bulock, of Pontiac, Mrs. Jacob DeWind, Mrs. Albert Barringer and Mrs. Matt Somero, of this city; 10 grandchildren two brothers, George Lewis of Muskegon Heights, Hartman Lewis of Fremont and a sister Mrs. Herbert Cummings of Lake Orien [sic - Orion], Mich. 
(from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Saturday 28 June 1930, pg. 2, column 5)

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George Emmett Lewis *
(1868 - 1964)

George Lewis Dies, Leaves 127 Survivors
     George E. Lewis, 1856 N. Cedar St., a resident of Muskegon since 1913, who is survived by 46 grandchildren and 71 great-grandchildren, died Saturday at Mercy Hospital after an illness of two years.  He was 96.
     Born Feb. 10, 1868 in St. Johns he also lived in Ann Arbor and Whitehall.  He married the former Mary Wilkenson [sic]  Dec. 31, 1891, here.  She died Oct. 25, 1940.
     He was a retired carpenter and contractor.
     Surviving are six sons, Harry of Grand Rapids, Horace of Morgantown, W. Va., David of Mecosta and Donald, James and Percy, all of Muskegon, three daughters, Mrs. William Robins [sic] of Conklin, Mrs. Bonnie Maxstead of Saginaw, and Mrs. Lewis [sic - Louis] Janda of Muskegon, and a sister, Mrs. Ida Cimmins [sic - Cummings] of Central Lakes [sic - Lake]
(from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Monday, 18 May 1964, pg. 28)

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George R. Lewis
(1892 - 1913)

VICTIM OF MOTOR ACCIDENT DEAD FROM HIS INJURIES
   
George Lewis, 20 years old, an employe [sic] of the Collection [sic – Colleton] pharmacy, who was thrown from his motorcycle on the Kalamazoo avenue road Tuesday evening, died from his injuries at St. Mary’s hospital Thursday morning.  His death will be investigated by the coroner in an attempt to learn whether Lewis fell from his machine or collided with another vehicle.
(from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Friday, 9 May 1913, pg. 4)

LEWIS TRAGEDY CUTS SHORT TRAVEL PLAN
Day He Was to Start on Long Trip Young Man’s Body Is Sent Home for Burial
   
The body of George Lewis was shipped today to Muskegon, his former home, for burial.  Accompanying the body were the father and mother and a brother, Harrison.  The funeral services will be held Saturday.  The death of Lewis, which occurrred [sic] at St. Mary’s hospital Thursday morning, cut short what would have been a unique adventure for the young man.
   
The day Lewis met injury when he fell from his motorcycle on Kalamazoo avenue, S. E., he was merely testing it out preparatory to starting on a trip to New York city and thence south along the Atlantic seaboard.  On this journey he would have been accompanied by a friend, Thomas Martin, also a motorcycle enthusiast.  The pair had planned to leave Grand Rapids today.  Instead Lewis was taken away to be buried.
   
George Lewis, the father was heart broken over the death of his son.  Like many others, young Lewis had left the farm for the city and had made good.  He purchased a new motorcycle Tuesday, paying $250 for it.  Today the father sold it to his son’s chum, Martin.
    The young man had been employed at Colleton’s pharmacy at 100 Ionia avenue, S W.
(from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Friday, 9 May 1913, pg. 18)

Read about George R. Lewis's life and family here.

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Hartman Lewis
(1876 - 1938)

    FREMONT, June 27 – Funeral services were held Monday for Hartman Lewis, 61, who died at this home near here in Dayton township Saturday.  He was buried in Casnovia cemetery.  Surviving are the widow, two sons, Wallace of Fremont and Robert of Eugene, Ore.; four daughters, Mrs. Calvin Ransom of Muskegon Heights, Beatrice, Margaret and Dorothy of Fremont, one brother and one sister.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Tuesday, 28 June 1938, pg. 3)

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   Leslie W. Lewis
(1907 - 1942)

Leslie Lewis, 35 [sic - 34], Whitehall Native, Worker Here, Dies
    Leslie W. Lewis, 34 years old, 968 Spring street, died Saturday at this home following a four months' illness.  He was born June 16, 1907 in Whitehall.  When five years old, he moved to Muskegon Heights where he received his education.  He became a resident of Muskegon 12 years ago when he was married to Henrietta Dobb, Oct. 17, 1929.
    Until the time of his illness, Mr. Lewis had been employed for six years as an inspector by the West Michigan Steel Foundry company.  He was a member of the Bethany Christian Reformed church and the Men's Bible class.
    Surviving, besides his wife, are two sons, both at home; one daughter at home; his father, George E. Lewis of Muskegon Heights; six brothers, Harry Lewis of Grand Rapids, Horace Lewis of Wadestown, W. Virginia, Dave Lewis of Mecosta, Donald and James Lewis, both of North Muskegon and Percy Lewis of Norton township; and three sisters, Mrs. Louis Janda of North Muskegon, Mrs. William Robbins of Coopersville and Mrs. Bonnie Smith of Lima, Ohio. 
(from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Monday, 12 January 1942)

Read about Leslie W. Lewis's life and family here.

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Marie (Lewis) Robbins *
(1902 - 1986)

ROBBINS - Mrs. Marie Robbins, aged 83, of Coopersville, passed away Monday morning.  She is survived by her [five] children, [including] Robert Robbins of Coopersville, Mrs. Shirley Hall of Sawyer, MI; 11 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Elmer (Bonnie) Hahn of FL, Mrs. Louis (Bertha) Janda of North Muskegon; four brothers, James Lewis, and Donald Lewis both of Muskegon, Dave Lewis of Macosta [sic - Mecosta], MI and Horace Lewis of West Virginia; many nieces and nephews.  Mrs. Robbins reposes at the Throop Funeral Home where Funeral Services will be held Friday 1:00pm.  Interment Coopersville Cemetery.  Visitation hours 7 to 9pm Wednesday, 2 to 4 and 7 to 9pm Thursday.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Tuesday, 4 February 1986, pg. C8)

Read about Marie Lewis' life and family here.

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Mary "Mae" E. (McArthur) York Randell Richmond*
(1875 - 1959)

MRS. WHEELER [sic] PASSES AWAY AT HOSPITAL

    Mrs. Mary E. Richmond [of] Wheeler passed away Friday, October 16, 1959 at Wilcox hospital in Alma.
   
She was born January 28, 1875 in Gratiot county.
    She is survived by her husband, Jesse B. Richmond; a daughter, Mrs. Earl B. Mcilveen of Harbor Beach; three sons, Ernest L. York of Alaska, Clare Randell of Ashland, Wisconsin and Wayne Randell of Ordaway, a brother William McArthur of Ovid and a sister Mrs. Frank Masten of Mesick.
    She attended the Breckinridge Pilgrim Holiness Church.
    Services were held Monday, October 19 at 1 p.m. from the Whiting funeral home, the Rev. Laurence Keesor officiating.  Burial was in Ortonville cemetery.  (from The Gratiot County [Michigan] Press, Thursday, 22 October 1959, pg. 15)

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Viola Gertrude (Peck) Robbins *
(1848 - 1918)

BELOVED HESPERIA PIONEER MOURNED

MRS. CHARLES ROBBINS WON LOVE OF INDIANS BEFORE PLACE WAS SETTLED
           
HESPERIA, Mich., March 12.—Mrs. Charles Robbins is gone, and her late husband, who wedded her at the close of his service in the Civil war to uphold the banner of freedom, says the loss is greater than he can bear.
            All this county knows Viola Gertrude Peck, who was born at Cowdersport [sic – Coudersport], Potter county, Pa., on April 14, 1848.  On Oct. 23, 1864, she was united in marriage to Mr. Robbins.
           
At the close of the war, in 1865, they came to Michigan and settled near where Hesperia now is.  They endured all the hardships of the pioneer life, spending about 52 years of their happy married life here, with the exception of a short time spent in Minnesota.  Their early neighbors were Indians, among whom they won many friends, and as the white people came she was a friend to all and loved by all in return.
           
She quietly passed from this life at her home after a prolonged illness which she had suffered for the past five years.  She leaves a husband and four children, Burton, Edwin and Angelo, to mourn their loss [daughter Emma Robbins Drake's name is missing from this obituary].  Two sons, Willie W. and Arthur, preceded her to the great beyond.
           
A short time before her death she sent her kindest greetings to all of her friends and acquaintances. 
(From Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Wednesday, 13 March 1918, pg. 10)

Mrs. Charles Robbins, 69, Hesperia pioneer, is dead.  (From The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Wednesday, 13 March 1918, pg. 10 - under "Michigan Deaths")

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Angelo Merrick Robbins, II
(1904 - 1982)

ROBBINS, MR. ANGELO M.

Mr. Angelo M. Robbins, age 78, died Thursday morning at a local hospital.  Mr. Robbins was born in Woodville, MI Sept. 12, 1904, coming to the Muskegon area as a young man.  He was employed in Packaging at the Bennett Pump Co., retiring in 1966.  Besides his wife, Mr. Robbins is survived by 2 sons, 1 brother, Donald Robbins of Muskegon, 5 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.  Funeral services for Mr. Robbins will be held at the Lee Funeral Home Saturday, 11 A.M.  He will be laid to rest in Sunrise Memorial Gardens.  Friends may call at the Lee Funeral Home this evening 7-9.  (from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Friday, 17 December 1982, pg. 4C - edited)

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Benjamin Leander "Lee" Robbins
(1850 - 1929)

FARMER AT DAISY TAKEN BY DEATH
DAISY, Wash., May 3.--(Special.)--Leander B. Robbins, 78, a farmer living four miles east of Daisy, died at his home Thursday morning of cerebral hemorrhage.  Two weeks ago Mr. Robbins suffered a stroke of apoplexy.  The remains were shipped to Arlington, Wash., for interment. 
(from The Spokane [Washington] Daily Chronicle, Friday, 3 May 1929, Last Edition, pg. 6)

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Charles H. Robbins *
(1844 - 1934)

[Note:  This obituary borrows heavily from a newspaper interview that Charles gave about four years before he died.  There were many errors and embellishments in that interview; to get a more accurate description of his life, please read his AnceStory here.]

Hesperia, Jan 22. - (Special)  Charles Robbins, 89 years old, Civil War veteran and one of the first residents of Hesperia, died at his home here Saturday.

Mr. Robbins, who had been extremely active until recently, was fond of recalling the huge forests which covered this region when he first arrived, shortly after the Civil War.  He aided in land clearing and wood cutting and watched the steady growth of the community from lumbering to agricultural pursuits.

He was born April 19, 1844, on a mountain farm in Pennsylvania.  His father, Joseph Josia [sic] Robbins, was a veteran of the Mexican War.  The father was a strict disciplinarian and Charles ran away from home when he was 13, working as a cabin boy on a canal packetboat for $5 a month.

When the Civil War broke out, both father and son enlisted but the father, because of his age, was not permitted to serve through the entire conflict.  Charles enlisted in April, 1861, shortly after Fort Sumter was taken by the Confederates, volunteering in Co. I of the 1st Pennsylvania Rifles, a regiment of sharpshooters known as the "Bucktails."  Charles carried his old squirrel rifle into action with him until breechloaders were issued the company later.

Bullet Clips Ear
Mr. Robbins took part in the fights at Romney Creek and at Piedmont in Virginia, where a bullet clipped off the top of his ear.  The Bucktails were constantly used as skirmishers and were always on the move, taking part in many brushes with guerrillas.  In one battle, at Dranesville, Mr. Robbins found himself stationed as a sharpshooter at the home of an uncle of his mother.

He was slashed in the hand at Catlett's Station when rebels surprised the Union camp.  He escaped unscathed through hard fighting at Antietam but went to the hospital a few days later with smallpox [sic - he had venereal disease].  On return to service, he took part in the battle of Fredericksburg and was in the group cut off in the railroad gap [sic - there was no gap in the railroad].  He tried to escape to the opposite side of the valley but felled into a walled up canal which he was unable to clear with a jump.  Federal gunboats in the river prevented the Confederates from capturing him and he escaped [sic - there were no gunboats in the river].

He took part in the repulse of the terrific Confederate charge which climaxed the battle of Gettysburg.  In pursuing the fleeing enemy he was struck by a bullet which went through his diary and a tintype and lodged against a rib.  He recalled crouching down behind a pile of rubbish and believed a shell must have exploded at that instant for when he woke, he was in a hospital five mile away with his left leg broken.

He saw the siege of Petersburg in 1864, following seven months in the hospital.  In 1865 [sic - 1 June 1864] he was mustered out of the service.

Weds Pennsylvania Girl
He went back to Pennsylvania following his discharge and there married Miss Viola Peck.  They came to Michigan, landing at Pentwater and coming overland through Randall's Corners, south of Hart, to Hesperia, where an aunt lived near Martin's Lake [Little Martin Lake] in Newaygo County.

Only one family lived at Hesperia then, the Hoskins, and they soon moved away.  Mr. Robbins helped build the first log store here, owned by Dr. Dayton and Champlin, on the north side of the river.  Later "Uncle" Daniel Weaver built the store owned by Mr. Wright.

After working for a time in Hesperia, Mr. Robbins moved west in 1872 but later returned to Hesperia to live.  Mrs. Robbins died in 1918.  In 1921 Mr. Robbins married the widow of his brother, Mrs. Frank Robbins, who survives him.  Two sons, Bert and Edd [sic] of St. Petersburg, FL, also survive, and a daughter, Mrs. Lincoln Drake of Fremont.

The funeral will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. from the home with Rev. William Paulson of the Hesperia M. E. Church in charge.  Burial will be in East [sic - West] Cemetery.

Death of Mr. Robbins leaves only three Civil War veterans surviving here:  James McConnell 93, Hiram Smith 90, and Henry Waterman 87.
(from a Hesperia, Michigan-area newspaper, Monday, 22 Jan 1934, unknown page)

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Donald Charles Robbins
(1914 - 2000)

ROBBINS, MR. DONALD C.

Muskegon Mr. Donald C. Robbins, age 85, passed away Saturday morning, Jan. 22, 2000 at a local nursing facility.  Service arrangements will be announced in Monday's Chronicle.  Lee [Funeral Home] (733-2152)  (from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Sunday, 23 January 2000, online)

ROBBINS, MR. DONALD C.

Muskegon Mr. Donald C. Robbins, age 85, died Saturday, January 22, 2000 at a local nursing home.  He was born March 20, 1914 in Ensley Center, MI and was a life long resident of the Muskegon area.  Mr. Robbins was a member of the Masonic Lodge.  He served in the U.S. Navy during W.W.II.  Mr. Robbins was employed with the Muskegon Fire Department and later the City of Muskegon Police Department.  He was also the Police Chief for the Township of Muskegon until retiring in 1977.  SURVIVORS: his wife; 6 sons; 14 grandchildren and several great- grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by 1 son, his brothers [including William and Angelo] and 1 sister.  A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held Tuesday 3 P>M> at Sunrise Memorial Gardens Chapel.  INTERMENT: Sunrise Memorial Gardens.  MEMORIALS: Muskegon Rescue Mission.  Lee [Funeral Home] (733-2152)   (from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle online, Monday, 24 January 2000 - edited)

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Joseph Uzza Benson Robbins
(1847 - 1931)

    Joseph Benson Robbins, former resident of Hesperia and Civil war veteran, passed away in Arlington, Wash., May 10.
    Born in Liberty, McKeen [sic - McKean] county, Pa., on June 2, 1847, Joseph Robbins lived through the hectic days of the Civil war, enlisting with Co. G of the 211th Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers of Portage, Alleghany [sic - Allegheny Co., Pennsylvania].  He saw active service for 22 months.  At the close of the war he came to Michigan, where he was united in Marriage on Sep. 2, 1888, to Mrs. Margaret Wade the ceremony taking place in Hesperia.
    In 1907 Mr. and Mrs. Robbins went to the coast, accompanying their only daughter, Mrs. Harriet Rowley.  Here they have lived since.
    Surviving are the widow, who is blind; a daughter, Mrs. Rowley, and a son, B. E. Wade of Muskegon and ten grandchildren.
    Interment was in Arlington beside his brother Lea [Benjamin Leander Robbins].
    Mr. Robbins is a brother of Chas. Robbins of this place. 
(This obituary was printed after 11 April 1931 in a Hesperia-area newspaper - either Oceana or Newaygo Co., Michigan, unknown page.)

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Marinda (Robbins) Robbins *
(1827 - 1912)

[Note:  Marinda's maiden name was Robbins, and her married name was Robbins.  The names were also spelled "Robins".  In her obituary, the newspaper used the spelling "Robins", and also spelled her first name "Miranda".  At this time, it is not know if she was related to her husband Joseph Josiah Robbins.] 

HESPERIA PIONEER DIES
Mrs. Miranda Robins Came to Michigan in 1865.

   
HESPERIA, Mich., Feb. 10.—Miranda Robins, 84 years old, died yesterday at the farm home of her son, Frank Robins, after a short illness.
   
In 1865 she came to Michigan with her husband, Joseph Robins, from New York and settled for a few months in Pentwater, then in Hesperia, where she had since lived; and like all pioneer mothers, did much for the uplifting of home and country.
   
Four sons survive her: Charles and Benjamin [sic – Benson] of Hesperia, who served in the Civil war, Leander of Washington and Frank of Hesperia.  [There is no mention of her daughter, Emeline C. Robbins, who did not die until 1917.]
   
The funeral will be at the farm home Sunday at 11 o’clock, with burial in West cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Sunday, 11 February 1912, pg. 7)

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Reva L. Robbins
(1898 - 1926)

    Robbins -- Reva -- Funeral of Miss Reva L. Robbins, 1134 Hoyt Street, who died Thursday morning, was held today at 2 p.m. from the Lee Funeral Home, Rev. F. A. Hatch officiating.  Buriel [sic] was in Mona View Cemetery.  (from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Monday, 2 August 1926, pg. 12)

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Robert Lewis Robbins *
(1920 - 2003)

Robert L. Robbins
ROBBINS
- Robert L. Robbins, aged 83, passed away Monday, December 29, 2003 in Corpus Christi, Texas.  He was born September 21, 1920 in Muskegon Heights, Michigan.  Robert was a resident of Coopersville, Michigan, and a winter resident of Rockport, Texas for the past 10 years.  He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Marie Robbins; a sister and three grandchildren.  He is survived by his wife of 63 years; two sons; three daughters; two brothers; his sister; 20 [sic - 17] grandchildren, 22 [sic - 20] great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 2, 2004 with Funeral Services to be conducted at 2:00 p.m. at Salt Lake Baptist Church, Rockport, Texas.  Interment 2:15 p.m. Monday, January 5, 2004 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio.  CHARLIE MARSHALL FUNERAL HOMES ROCKPORT-FULTON 1-800-428-2922 
(from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Tuesday, 30 December 2003, online)

Read about Robert Lewis Robbins's life and family here.

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Shirley Marie (Robbins) Hall
(1925 - 1992)

Shirley Hall
   
GILMER--Services for Shirley Marie Robbins Hall of Sawyer, Mich. will be [at] 2 p.m. today at First Baptist Church in Keller with Dr. Leroy Patterson and the Rev. Jane Temple officiating.  Burial will be in Bluebonnet Memorial Cemetery in Colleyville under direction of Croley Funeral Home of Gilmer.  Memorial services will be Feb. 27 at United Church of Christ in Sawyer, Mich., with the Rev. Jane Temple officiating.
    She died Monday.  She was born Aug. 14, 1925 in Muskeegon [sic], Mich.  She was a Methodist, past officer of S.W. Michigan Chamber of Commerce and member of International Society of Appraisers.  She attended Pennsylvania State University.  For 20 years she was owner-operator of Old Tyme Antique Shop in Sawyer, Mich.  She was preceded in death by husband, Herbert H. Hall Sr
    Survivors include [a] son; daughter and son-in-law...;[two] grandchildren; [three] brothers [including] Robert Robbins
[and Lloyd Robbins; one sister.  The rest of this obituary is cut off.]  (From the Longview [Texas] News-Journal, Wednesday, 19 February 1992, page 6-A.)

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William Bryan Robbins *
(1896 - 1972)

ROBBINS - William Bryan Robbins, aged 76, of 19708 Conklin St., Conklin, passed away early Monday morning.  Surviving are the wife, Marie; three sons, [including] Robert of Coopersville; two daughters,  [including] Mrs. Shirley Hall of St. Joseph, Mich.; 11 grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren; three brothers, Lloyd of Comstock Park, Angelo and Donald both of Muskegon.  Mr. Robbins will repose at the Throop Funeral Home, Coopersville, where funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2 o'clock.  Interment in the Coopersville Cemetery under auspices of the Conklin American Legion, Reinhard Roman Post No. 537 of which he was a member.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press , Monday, 7 August 1972, pg. 7-D)

Read about William Bryan Robbins' life and family here.

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Mahala (Sayers) Wilkinson *
(1847 - 1937)

VENERABLE LADY IS SUMMONED BY DEATH AT LUCHINI HOME
    Mrs. Mahala Sears [sic] Wilkinson, 89 years old, died at the home of her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Luchini, 115 Walnut street, at 2 o'clock Wednesday morning, following a critical illness which began with a heart attack last Saturday.
    The aged lady had been in precarious health since July 8, 1936, when she was found to be suffering from a serious heart malady.  She got along quite comfortably, however, until last week when the sudden heat wave brought on the condition which resulted in her death.
    The body was taken to Whitehall [Muskegon Co.], Michigan, Mrs. Wilkinson's old home, Wednesday morning, and the funeral and burial will take place there beside her husband, and among loved friends and scenes.
    Mrs. Wilkinson was born July 8, 1847, at Prince Edward [County], Ont., and came to the States many years ago.  She is survived by Mrs. Floyd Luchini, Alma; Mrs. George Lewis, Mrs. A. L. Ainger and John Wilkinson, all of Whitehall, and Fred Wilkinson, of Kelso, Wash.  Mrs. Luchini has the sympathy of many Alma friends in her loss.  (from The Alma [Michigan] Record and Alma Journal, Thursday, 3 Jun 1937, unknown page.)

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Ida (Schripsema) Tuinstra
(1892 - 1980)

TUINSTRA - Mrs. Ida Tuinstra, aged 87, widow of William, formerly of 3821 White St., Grandville, went to be with her Lord, on Friday May 2, 1980.  She was preceded in death by her son George, February 1980 [no mention is made of an infant daughter, Mariana (1919 - Jul 1920)].  Surviving are two daughters; a daughter-in-law, Mrs. George (Barbara) Tuinstra of Grandville; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a sister Mrs. Sena Duthler of Grand Rapids.  Memorial contributions may be left at the funeral home for the Bethany Home.  Services will be held 1pm Monday from the funeral home with Rev. S.T. Cammenga Officiating.  Interment Grandville Cemetery.  The family will meet relatives and friends from 7 to 9 Saturday and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9pm Sunday at the Grandville Chapel of Cook Funeral Home.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Saturday, 3 May 1980, pg. 7B)

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Fredericka M. (Steen) Wilkinson
(1881 - 1967)

Fredericka Wilkinson
   
Mrs. Fredericka M. Wilkinson, 86, Rt. 1 Freeland, died in a Whidbey Island nursing home Nov. 15.
     Born in Pentwater, Michigan, Sept. 13, 1881, she came west in 1905 and had made her home on Whidbey Island for 28 years.  Her husband Frederick preceded her in death in 1949.
     Survivors:  One daughter, Mrs. Mona K. Aney, Rt. 2 Monroe; three sisters and one brother, in Michigan; one grandson and seven great-grandchildren.
     Services:  Saturday at 1 p.m. in Hedgcock Funeral Chapel, Langley, with Rev. LeRoy Walker officiating.  Burial, Bayview Cemetery in Langley.  (From The Everett [Washington] Herald, Friday, 17 November 1967, unknown page.)

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Charles Frisbie Strong *
(1852 - 1921)

C. F. STRONG, FORMER LOCAL MAN, DIES IN WEST

C. F. Strong of Hubbard, Ore., died April 11 in Portland, following an operation.  Mr. Strong resided in Hubbard for the past three years after a residence of about 20 years in Grand Rapids.  He is survived by the widow and the following children: F. C. Strong of Hubbard; Mrs. E. R. Hastie of Mt. Angel, Ore.; Mrs. J. M. Hoekstra of Tacoma, Wash.; A. L. Strong of Fiske, Saskatchewan; Mrs. William Holland [sic – Howland]  of Sunfield, Mich., and P. Z. Strong and E. F. Strong of this city.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Tuesday, 19 April 1921, pg. 1)

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Lillian Fern (Strong) Hoekstra *
(1897 - 1967)

HOEKSTRA -- Mrs. John (Lillian F.) Hoekstra, aged 70, of 2710 Forest Grove SW, passed away Sunday afternoon at Blodgett Memorial Hospital.  Surviving besides her husband are three daughters, Mrs. Ruth DeVries of Grand Rapids, Mrs. Vern (Hope) Loveland of Washington and Mrs. John (Mary Louise) Glashower of Cedar Springs; a brother, Edward Strong of Grand Rapids; two sisters, Mrs. Jessie Rathbun of Grand Rapids and Mrs. Ethel Hastie of Oregon; 10 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.  Mrs. Hoekstra reposes at the Cook Funeral Home, Grandville, where friends and relatives may meet the family Monday evening from 7 to 9.  Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2 o'clock at the funeral home.  Rev. Hartwell Gosney officiating.  Interment [Grandville-] Wyoming Cemetery.  The family asks that flowers be omitted.  (from The Grand Rapids {Michigan] Press, Monday, 11 September 1967, unknown page)

Read about Lillian Fern Strong's family and life here.

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Manley Sweers
(1808 - 1893)

[Note: Manley Sweers was a younger brother of my 4th-great-grandmother, Rhoda (Sweers) York.  This obituary was not written well, and in some sentences, it is not always clear whether the subject is Manley or his father, Daniel Swears, III.  Using other resources, I have injected several notes to clarify the meaning.  Although this obituary is titled for two individuals, my copy has been cut off at the end of the part dedicated to Manley Sweers's life.  I do not have further information on Rev. Jewell.]

TWO LONG AND USEFUL LIVES
Rev. J. B. Jewell of Gaines and Manley Sweers of Atlas Have Passed Away

    Manley Sweers, who died Dec. 13, 1894, was born in Wooster [sic - Worcester, Washington County], Vermont, Aug. 28, 1808.  When he was eight months old his parents moved to a place in Canada near the Chippewa creek [Chippewa, Welland County, Ontario].  In 1812 the great war broke out with Great Britain and they were going to press his father into the army.  To escape the press-gang [Daniel] came to the states.  At this time the battle of Chippewa or Black Rock was in progress and [Manley] with his mother well remember of [sic] seeing the British go up to battle in the morning and return in the afternoon, the wounded being drawn in ox-carts.  Soon after his uncle [probably Peter Swears, who served as a private in the Second Lincoln Militia of the British army] went to Captain Cummings and told him the situation of the family and [Cummings] allowed her to go down to the [Niagara] river where she flagged the boats and they came and carried the family across, where they joined [Manley's] father and then proceeded to the town of Clarence, Erie county, N. Y.
    After a short time [Daniel] left his family with a rich man by the name of Beman [sic - Beeman] and elisted [sic] in the American army under Chapens [Chapens' Company, New York Militia].  When the war closed, [Manley and his family] returned home and soon after removed to the town of Gorham in Hunt's Hollow [Ontario County, New York].  He remembered of [sic] seeing the stakes stuck for the Erie canal.  He worked on it and after it was completed boated on it for about a year.
    When a young man he visited his uncle in Canada near Queenstown Heights and worked on the Wellington canal, drawing earth from a deep cut with an ox team.  He returned to N. Y. and in 1833 when 26 years of age, he married Lydia Vanclieve [sic - Van Cleve].  The next year a son (Spencer) was born to them.
    In the winter of 1835-6 he with his brother Daniel [Jr.] came with one horse from N. Y. through Canada to Michigan , where he took up his land on Sec. 26, Town of Atlas, Genesee county, from the U. S. Government, which was ever after his home.  He  hired a man to build him a log cabin and in exchange gave him the horse which he had brought with him.  He then returned in N. Y., and on the 15th of May, 1836, he with his family came to their new home, coming by wagon from Detroit.
    When they arrived here their house was not completed.  There were neither windows or a door and a blanket had to be substituted for a door.  It was three miles to the nearest neighbors and Detroit was the nearest market from which he brought all their provision with an ox team.  The first barrel of flour he bought cost him $12 and the first wheat he sold for 44c a bushel.  Under such conditions supporting a large family and clearing up a farm was rather a hard life.  But he with his faithful wife who preceded him to the farther shore Sept. 30, 1891, overcame all of them.  (from an unknown Genesee County, Michigan-area newspaper, dated after 13 December 1894, unknown page)

Read more about Manley's life here.

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Carl Thor
(1886 - 1925)

CARL THOR
  
              Carl Thor, aged 39, formerly of Talmadge township, died Thursday afternoon at St. Mary’s hospital.  He is survived by his widow, his father and mother, one daughter and a sister, all of whom live in Sweden [sic – his widow and, it is assumed, his daughter, lived in Michigan].  The body was removed to the Greenhoe and Hatch mortuary.  Funeral services will be held in the Greenhoe and Hatch chapel Monday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock under the auspices of I. O. O. F. lodge, No. 11, of which Mr. Thor was a member.  Burial in Woodlawn cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Friday, 25 December 1925, pg. 3)

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Jennie (Ton) Hoekstra *
(1867 - 1943)

HOEKSTRA--Mrs. Jennie Hoekstra, aged 76, of Allegan passed away at her home early Saturday morning.  Surviving are the husband, Martin; two daughters, Mrs. Grace Klap of Grand Rapids and Mrs. Maude VanHartesveldt of Detroit; two sons, John Hoekstra of Grand Rapids and Lewis Hoekstra of Allegan; ten grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Nellie Houseman of Grand Rapids.  Mrs. Hoekstra will repose at the Gorden Funeral Home, Allegan, until Monday when services will be held at 2 p. m. with burial in Oakwood cemetery, Allegan.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Saturday, 11 December 1943, pg. 17)

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Mary (Ton) Cleveland
(c. 1864 - 1902)

[Note:  Mary was an older sister of my great-great-grandmother, Jennie (Ton) Hoekstra.]

Died
Cleveland--Sunday, December 21, after a short illness, Mary, the wife of Charles Cleveland of North Muskegon.  The funeral will be held tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock, Rev. Charles C. Coors of the M.E. Church of North Muskegon, officiating.  (from The Muskegon {Michigan] Chronicle, Monday, 22 December 1920, pg. 7)

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Agnes "Aggie" (Tuinstra) Valk *
(1885 - 1921)

VOLK [sic] - Agnes Volk, aged 36 [sic - she was exactly one week shy of her 36th birthday], died Aug. 25 at Cutlerville.  She is survived by her husband, William Volk, six sons [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6] and one daughter, father and seven brothers [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7].  Funeral services Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Twelfth-st. Christian Reformed church.  Interment in Greenwood cemtery [sic](from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Saturday, 27 August 1921, pg. 12)

Read about Agnes Tuinstra's life and family here.

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Geert "George" Aukes Tuinstra *
(1851 - 1928)

TUINSTRA - Gerrit [sic] Tuinstra, aged 77, passed away Sept. 14, at his home, 1332 Maude ave., N. E.  He is survived by his [second] wife, seven sons, William, John, Jacob, Oscar, Dick, George and Herman; one stepson, John DeGroot; three stepdaughters, Mrs. Jacob Wesseling, Mrs. George Tuinstra and Mrs. Martin Van Dyken; twenty grandchildren, and one brother.  Funeral services Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, at the Coldbrook Christian Reformed church.  Interment in Grandville cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Saturday, 15 September 1928, pg. 23)

Read about Geert "George" Aukes Tuinstra's life and family here.

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Jacob Geerts Tuinstra
(1890 - 1970)

Jacob Tuinstra, Founder of Fruitbasket, Dies at 80
  
Jacob G. Tuinstra, 80, of 1700 Boston St., SE, founder of Fruitbasket Flowerland, Inc., died Monday of heart failure at Blodgett Memorial Hospital.
    Mr. Tuinstra retired seven years ago after working most of his life in the wholesale produce business.  In the early part of the century he was the first farmer to appear at Grand Rapids Wholesale Market in a horseless truck.
It Frightened Horses
  
The market master threatened to ban him and "that contraction" because it frightened the other farmers' horses.
    Mr. Tuinstra later became the buyer for the retail store, Fruit Basket Gardens, now Fruitbasket Flowerland, Inc.
    A life resident of Grand Rapids, Mr. Tuinstra was an elder in the Plymouth Heights Christian Reformed Church.
    He is survived by his wife, Jennie; two sons, Gerry and Robert, and three daughters, [including] Mrs. Jack Post, all of Grand Rapids; 20 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Funeral Services Thursday
  
Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the DeVries Funeral Home with the Rev. Wilbert VanDyk of the Plymouth Heights Christian Reformed Church officiating.  Burial will be at Rosedale Memorial Park.
    The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the World Home Bible League or Sylvan Christian School.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Tuesday, 4 August 1970, pg. 1B)

TUINSTRA--Jacob G. Tuinstra, aged 80, of 1700 Boston SE, went to be with his Lord Monday afternoon.  He is survived by his wife , Jennie, his [five] children, [including] Jack and Marie Post, Gerry Tuinstra, and Robert Tuinstra; 20 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; four sisters-in-laws [sic], Mrs. Ida Tuinstra of Grandville, Mrs. Jennie Tuinstra of Grand Rapids, Mrs. Mary Tunistra [sic] of Eugene, Oregon and Mrs. Henrietta Tuinstra of Grand Rapids; also nephews and nieces.  Funeral services will be held Thursday 1:30 p.m. at the DeVries Funeral Home, Rev. Wilbert VanDyk of the Plymouth Heights Christian Reformed Church officiating.  Interment Rosedale Memorial Park.  Relatives and friends may meet the family at the funeral home Tuesday 7 to 9 p.m. and Wednesday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the World Home Bible league of Sylvan Christian School.  Arrangements by DeVries-Kuiper-DeGraaf.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Tuesday, 4 August 1970, pg. 7D)

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Jan "John" Tuinstra
(1888 - 1952)

TUINSTRA--Funeral services for John Tuinstra, aged 63, of 1011 Division Ave., S., will be held at 3:30 p. m. Saturday at the Greenhoe-VanZee Funeral Home, 207 Fulton St., E., Supt. Albert Veen of the Buckley Street Back to God Church officiating.  Interment Wyoming Township Cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Saturday, 29 March 1952, pg. 13)

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William Tuinstra
(1887 - 1963)

TUINSTRA - William Tuinstra, aged 76 of 3821 White St., Grandville, passed away Thursday at his home.  Surviving are his wife, Ida; a son, George of Jenison; two daughters; three brothers Jacob, Oscar, and George, all of Grand Rapids; and five grandchildren.  Mr. Tuinstra reposes at the Cook Funeral Home, Grandville, where friends and relatives may meet the family Saturday evening from 7 to 9, and Sunday from 2 to 4 and 8 to 9:30.  Funeral service will be held Monday at 1:30 at the funeral home.  The Rev. Marinus Arnoys officiating.  Interment Wyoming Cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Saturday, 16 November 1963, pg. 18)

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Jitske "Jessie" (Tysma) DeGroot Tuinstra
(c. 1862 - 1956)

TUINSTRA - Mrs. Jessie (DeGroot) Tuinstra, aged 94, of 1538 Houseman ave., NE, passed away Friday evening at her home.  She is survived by a son, John DeGroot; three daughters, Mrs. J. Wesseling, Mrs. G. Tuinstra, and Mrs. J. Van Dyken; 14 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, all of Grand Rapids, and a brother in the Netherlands.  Funeral services will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Hollebeck Funeral Home, 1100 West Leonard st., the Rev. R. Ruinstra [sic] officiating.  Interment Fairplains cemetery.  Mrs. Tuinstra reposes at the funeral home where friends may meet the family from 7 to 9 p. m. on Saturday evening and from 3 to 5 p. m. and 7 to 9 p. m. on Sunday.  (from The Grand Rapids {Michigan] Press, Saturday, 7 July 1956, pg. 27)

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Barbara Dorothy Valk
(1918 - 2001)

VALK
01/15/01
Barbara Valk, aged 82, of Grand Rapids, was taken home to Glory on Saturday, January 13, 2001.  She was a missionary in Africa for 38 years and a missionary in Maranatha Village in Sebring, FL for eight years.  She was preceded in death by her brothers, James, George, William, Oscar, Ray, and Chester Valk; and her sister, Jeanette [sic - Jennette] Drew.  Surviving are brothers and sisters, [including] Thelma Valk [a sister-in-law] , Theodore Valk of ID, [and] Robert and Delores Valk; [a] step-brother; . . . several nieces and nephews.  Funeral and Committal Services will be held Wednesday 11am at the Kuiper Funeral Home, 1311 Chicago Dr. SW, Wyoming [Michigan] with Rev. Lloyd Steinfort officiating.  Interment Grandville Cemetery.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Baptist Mid-Missions or Michigan Christian Home.  Relatives and friends may meet the family at the funeral home Tuesday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9pm. (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press online, 15 January 2001, http://www.milive.com/obits/)

Read about Barbara Dorothy Valk's life here.

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Bertha Wilma (Valk) Meyering Kramer
(1924 - 2007)

BERTHA WILMA KRAMER
Bertha Wilma Kramer, age 82, of Holland [Michigan] died Sunday,  April 1, 2007 at an area care center.  She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and actively supported the  church for many years.  She volunteered at Holland Hospital.  She was preceded in death by her first husband Elmer Meyering and many brothers and sisters.  She is survived by her [second] husband; [two] children; 10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; step-children; brother and sister, [and three sisters-in-law]; many nephews, nieces and cousins.  Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 6, 2007 at Zion Lutheran Church 77 West 32nd Street in Holland.  Reverend John Westra will be officiating.  Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, April 5, 2007 at Lakeshore Memorial Services 11939 James Street in Holland and from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service at the church.  Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church.  An on-line registry book is available at www.lakeshorememorial.com for those who cannot attend the services.  Lakeshore Memorial Service, Inc. 11939 James Street Holland, MI  49424 (616)395.3630 (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press online, 3 April 2007, http://www.milive.com/obits/)

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George William Valk
(1911 - 1973)

VALK -- George Valk, aged 62, of 2084 Fawnwood SE, Kentwood, passed away Sunday Sept. 30, 1973.  Surviving are seven brothers, [including] James, William, Oscar, Theodore, Robert, [and] Raymond Valk; four sisters, [including] Miss Barbara Valk [and] Mrs. Robert (Jeanette) [sic - Jennette] Drew.  Mr. Valk reposes at the Grandville Chapel of Cook Funeral Home where funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday with Rev. Robert J. Reynhout officiating.  Interment Greenwood Cemetery.  The family will be at the funeral home Monday 7 to 9, Tuesday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Monday, 1 October 1973, pg. 6-D)

Read about George William Valk's life here.

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James Frederick "Jim" Valk
(1939 - 1958)

VALK -- James W. Valk [sic - middle name is Frederick], aged 19, formerly of Grand Rapids, passed away Tuesday morning.  Surviving are his mother, Mrs. Elfrieda [sic - Elfriede] Upton of Monroe, La.; a brother; a sister, both of Monroe, La., the maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lomker of Grand Rapids; and several aunts and uncles [no mention is made of his father or four younger half-siblings].  James reposes at the Rauschenberger-Walcott Funeral Home, where services will be held Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. Martin W. Brauer officiating.  Interment Rosedale Memorial Park.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Thursday, May 22, 1958, pg. 57)

Read about James Frederick Valk's life here.

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James William "Jim" Valk
(1910 - 1997)

VALK -- James Valk, aged 87, of Wyoming [Michigan] went to be with his Lord Thursday, June 19, 1997.  Surviving are his wife, Thelma of 56 years; his brothers Theodore Valk of Boise, ID, Robert (Delores) Valk of Wyoming, and a step-brother; his sisters [including] Barbara Valk of Grand Rapids [and] Bertha Kramer of Holland, MI; and several nieces and nephews.  Mr. Valk was a charter member of Newhall Baptist Church.  Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday from the Cook Memorial Chapel (4235 Prairie St. east building) with his pastors, Rev. Irvin L. Piell and Rev. Mark E. Lones officiating.  Relatives and friends my [sic] meet with the family 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 Friday at Cook Funeral Home - Grandville (west building).  Interment Floral View Memorial Gardens.  Memorial contributions may be made to Newhall Baptist Church Pave and Save Fund or charity of one's choice.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Friday, 20 June 1997, unknown page)

Read about James William Valk's life here.

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Jennette Mildred (Valk) Drew
(1926 - 1993)

DREW -- Mrs. Jennette M. Drew, aged 67, of Wyoming, passed away Tuesday August 3, 1993.  Surviving are her children; six grandchildren; her brothers and sisters, [including] James Valk of Wyoming [Michigan], Ted Valk of Idaho, Robert Valk of Wyoming [Michigan], Barbara Valk of Grand Rapids; many nieces and nephews.  Funeral and Committal Services will be held Friday 11am at Grace Lutheran Church, 126 50th ST SW with Rev. Noble P. Lach officiating.  Interment Rosedale Memorial Park.  The family will receive visitors Thursday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9pm at the DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4031 Clyde Park SW and suggests memorial contributions to Grace Lutheran Building Fund or Hospice of Greater Grand Rapids.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Thursday, 5 August 1993, pg. D15)

Read about Jennette Mildred Valk's life and family here.

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John Chester "Chet" Valk,
a.k.a. William Thomas Valk
(1914 - 1944)

Army Veteran Dies in Action
Pvt. John W. Valk, One of 8 Brothers, Served for 7 Years
    A veteran of seven years in the army was reported killed in action on Wednesday's casualty list, and six men were listed as wounded.  Another was added to the roll of German prisoners.
    One of four brothers in the army, Private John W. (Chester) Valk, 31, previously reported missing in Luxembourg Dec. 31, is now known to have been killed in action on that date.  His wife, Mrs. Elfriede Lomke [sic - Lomker] Valk, 120 Ransom ave., NE., and parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Valk, 1006 White ave., NW., had not made public the first report that he was lost.

*     *     *

    PVT. VALK, a former employe [sic] of a building contractor, was in the regular army from 1936 to 1939 and was recalled to active service in February, 1941.  He had been overseas with an ordnance unit 11 months.
    Besides the parents and wife, he is survived by a [step] son, James Frederick, 6; eight brothers, [including] Cpl. Theodore Valk at Santa Ana, Calif., Cpl. William Valk, jr., cook with an ordnance unit on the western front; James Valk, Sault Sainte Marie; George Valk, Grand Rapids; Oscar Valk, Zeeland; Robert and Raymond Valk at home; and four sisters [including] Barbara Valk, missionary now en route to Africa; [and] Jennette, at home. (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Friday, 9 March 1945, pg. 7)

Read about John Chester Valk's life and family here.

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Kenneth Raymond Valk
(1928 - 1928)

VALK--Kenneth Raymond Valk, aged 2 months and 2 days, passed away Friday morning at the family home, 1006 White-av., N. W.  Surviving are the parents [1, 2], seven brothers [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 ; sic - one brother is missing, probably Oscar, who lived with a foster family] and three sisters [1, 2, 3].  Funeral services will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the residence.  Burial in Greenwood cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Friday, 5 October 1928, pg. 45)

Read about Kenneth Raymond Valk's life here.

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Oscar William Valk
(1916 - 1984)

VALK -- Mr. Oscar Valk, aged 68, of Byron Center, went home to be with his Lord Thursday, August 16, 1984.  Surviving are his wife, Edith; his children; 18 grandchildren, one great-grandson; three brothers, James of Wyoming [Michigan], William of Alto, Theodore of Idaho; one sister, Barbara Valk of Florida; two half brothers, Robert of Wyoming [Michigan], Raymond of Mississippi; three half sisters, [including] Mrs. [Robert] James (Jeanette) [sic - Jennette] Drew of Wyoming; one step-brother.  Funeral Services will be held 1pm Monday from the Hanley Christian Reformed Church, with Rev. Wesley Timmer and Rev. James Lenthers officiating.  Interment Floral View Cemetery.  Memorial contributions to the Mel Trotter Mission.  Visiting hours 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 Saturday and Sunday at the Grandville Chapel of Cook Funeral Home (4235 Prairie St.).  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Saturday, 18 August 1984, pg. D6)

Read about Oscar William Valk's life and family here.

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Raymond Edwin "Ray" Valk
(1932 - 1990)

VALK -- Raymond Edwin "Ray" Valk, aged 58, of Ocean Springs, MS, formerly of Grand Rapids, passed away Friday, August 31, 1990 in Mobile, AL.  Mr. Valk was a Lutheran.  He lived on the Gulf Coast for 35 years.  He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post #5699, the Mark Seymour Chapter of Ocean Springs.  Mr. Valk was preceded in death by a brother, William Valk.  He is survived by his wife; two [step] sons; four sisters, [including] Barbara Valk of Sebring, FL, [and] Jeanette [sic - Jennette] Drew of Wyoming, MI; four brothers, [including] James Valk, Theodore Valk, [and] Robert Valk, all of Wyoming, MI; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren.  Visitation will be held Monday, September 3, 1990 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Ocean Springs Chapel of the Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home.  A procession will leave the funeral home at 9:45 a.m. Tuesday, September 4, 1990 for a 10 a.m. Mass at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church in Ocean Springs.  Burial will be in Crestlawn Memorial Park in Ocean Springs.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Sunday, 2 September 1990, pg. J25)

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Robert John "Bob" Valk
(1927 - 2003)

VALK -- Robert J. Valk, age 76, of Wyoming [Michigan], went to be with the Lord, Thursday, May 15, 2003.  He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Dolores; his children; his 15 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren; his sisters, [including]  Bertha Kramer; and [half] brother.  Funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Monday at the Cook Memorial Chapel (east building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, with Pastor Jack Lynn.  The family will receive relatives and friends Saturday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Cook Funeral Home, Grandville (west building).  If you are unable to attend the visitation or services please sign the family's Memory Book at www.cookfuneralhome.com  Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press online, Friday, 16 May 2003, http://www.legacy.com/CommonCobrand/ and http://www.memorialobituaries.com/memorials/)

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Theodore William "Ted" Valk
(1917 - 2002)

Theodore William Valk, 85, of Boise, passed away Sunday, Sept. 8, 2002, at his home after a long illness.  Theodore "Ted" Valk was born Aug. 12, 1917, in Grand Rapids, Mich., to William and Agnes Tuinstra Valk.  Ted was raised in Grand Rapids, where he received his education and graduated from high school.  On Aug. 25, 1946, he married his wife.  They resided in Southern California for 25 years where he worked for McDonnell-Douglas Aircraft.  They have also resided in Idaho for the past 25 years.  Ted was enlisted in the U.S. Army from 1941-1945.  He was one of four brothers who served during the World War II era.  He lost his brother Chester in the Battle of the Bulge.  Ted enjoyed playing cribbage with his family.  Among some of his interests, he enjoyed playing the harmonica, and singing religious songs with his [youngest] daughter.  Survivors include his wife, two daughters, one son, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, all of Boise; a half brother, Robert, and two half sisters, all of Grand Rapids, Mich.; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6], one sister, and five half brothers and sisters [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].  A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, at the Relyea Funeral Chapel.  Private family inurnment will take place at Dry Creek Cemetery.  The family would like to give a special thanks to Life's Doors Hospice, specifically, Ivy, Steve, Bridget, Jane, Annabell, and Richard. (from The Idaho Statesman online, Boise, Idaho, 13 September 2002, http://www.idahostatesman.com/News/Obituaries/obit_single.asp?id=11275)

Read about Theodore William Valk's life and family here.

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Tjamme Wiegers "James" Valk *
(1860 - 1922)

VALK--James Valk, aged 61, died May 13 at his home, 1315 Leonard-st., N.W.  He is survived by his widow, one son, William, and two daughters, Mrs. Jennie Heidema and Mrs. Jacob Ysseldyke, and ten grandchildren.  Funeral services Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the West Leonard-st. Christian Reformed church.  Interment Greenwood cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Tuesday, 16 May 1922, pg. 2)

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William "Bill" Valk *
(1912 - 1989)

VALK - Mr. William Valk, aged 76, of Alto, passed away October 10, 1989.  Surviving are his wife; [five] children; 19 grandchildren, one great-granddaughter; brothers Ted Valk of Idaho, Jim (Thelma) Valk of Wyoming [Michigan]; Robert (Delores) Valk of Wyoming, Ray Valk of Ocean Springs, MS; [four] sisters, [including] Jennette (Jim) Drew of Wyoming; one step-brother; [four] sisters, [including] Jennette (Jim) Drew of Wyoming, Bertha Kramer of Holland [Michigan],  Barbara Valk of Florida; a sister-in-law; several nieces and nephews.  Mr. Valk was a member of the VFW Creston Post, a Veteran of WWII, and worked for Wolverine Brass for 27˝ years.  Funeral Services will be held Friday 1:30pm at the funeral home.  Interment Rosedale Memorial Park.  Visitation 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 Thursday at the Sullivan-Borr Chapel of Cook Funeral Home (1725 S. Division).  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Thursday, 12 October 1989, unknown page)

Read about William Valk's life and family here.

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William James Valk *
(1886 - 1950)

VALK - William Valk, Sr., aged 63, of 1006 White Ave., NW, passed away at Butterworth Hospital Monday morning.  Surviving are seven sons, James, George, William, Jr., Oscar, Theodore, Robert and Raymond, four daughters [including] Miss Barbara Valk in Belgian Congo, Africa, [and] Mrs. Robert Drew of Grand Rapids; two sisters, Mrs. John S. VanderWal and Mrs. Jacob Ysseldyke, both of Grand Rapids and thirteen grandchildren.  Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock at the Van't Hof Funeral Home, Rev. M. W. Brauer officiating.  Interment Greenwood Cemetery.  Mr. Valk reposes at the chapel, where friends and relatives may meet the family from 7 to 9 p. m. Monday and from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p. m. on Tuesday.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Tuesday, 13 June 1950, pg. 13)

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W

Adriaantje "Adriana" (Wieringa) DeVries Hoogstra Niemeyer *
(1861 - 1925)

NIEMEYER – Mrs. Adriana Niemeyer, aged 64, wife of Teunis Niemeyer, passed away Monday afternoon at Blodgett hospital.  Surviving are the husband, four sons, George DeVries, Henry DeVries, Harry Hoogstra and Walter Hoogstra; two daughters, Mrs. Henry Niemeyer and Mrs. Bern [sic - Vern] Anderson, and nine grandchildren.  Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the home, 1010 Grandville-av., S. W.  Burial will be in Garfield Park cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Tuesday, 21 July 1925, pg. 17)

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Doetje "Dorothy" (Wiersma) Tuinstra *
(1854 - 1916)

MRS. DWOTJE TUINSTRA.
            Mrs. Dwotje Tuinstra, 62 years old, died Tuesday at her home, 1332 Maude avenue, N. E.  She is survived by her husband, seven sons [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7], one daughter, seven grandchildren, two brothers and seven sisters.  Funeral Friday afternoon at 1:30 from the Coldbrook Christian Reformed church.  Interment in Grandville cemetery.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Wednesday, 16 December 1916, pg. 6)

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Katherine "Kate" (Wilkinson) Thor Ainger
(1876 - 1949)

AINGER – Funeral services for Mrs. Katheryn Thor Ainger, age 73, will be held at her home in Whitehall, Mich., Saturday at 1:00, where friends and relatives may meet.  Mrs. Ainger came to Whitehall at the age of 3 from Port Hope, Ont., Canada, and attended the Whitehall school.  She married Carl Thor in Grand Rapids in 1912, and married Mr. Ainger in 1934 in Indiana.  Mrs. Ainger was a member of Grace Episcopal Church.  She is survived by her husband, Abner L. Ainger; two brothers, Fred Wilkins[on] of Freeland, Wash., and John Wilkins[on] of Rathberry [sic – Rothbury], Mich.; one sister, Mrs. Ella Euchine [sic – Luchini] of Elma [sic – Alma], Mich.; four daughters, Mrs. George Zatzke, Mrs. Paul Zatzke, Mrs. Ray Funnel and Mrs. F. E. Benjamin, and several nieces and nephews.  Rev. R. Bodway will officiate.  Interment in Woodlawn Cemetery, Grand Rapids.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Friday, 18 February 1949, pg. 9)

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Mary J. (Wilkinson) Lewis *
(1872 - 1940)

    Mrs. George E. Lewis, 1132 Hoyt Street, who has been ill in her home for about four weeks, is improving.  (from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Monday, 31 December 1917, pg. 7)

MRS. GEORGE E. LEWIS
     Mrs. George E. Lewis, 68 years old, 1136 Hoyt street, Muskegon Heights, died at her home Thursday evening following an illness of several years.
     Formerly Mary Wilkinson, she was born April 17, 1872, at Port Hope, Canada.  In the fall of 1879 she came to the United States with her family and settled in Whitehall, and in April, 1913, she came to Muskegon Heights.
     She was a member of the Episcopal church of Whitehall.  She married George E. Lewis in Muskegon on Dec. 31, 1891.
     Besides her husband, she is survived by seven sons, Harrison, of Grand Rapids, Horace R. of Wadestown, W. Va., David A. of Mecosta; Donald of Spring Lake, Leslie W., Percy and James J. [sic - P.] of Muskegon; three daughters, Mrs. Bonnie M. Smith of Lima, Ohio, Mrs. Louis Janda of Muskegon, and Mrs. William B. Robbins of Coopersville; two brothers, John Wilkinson of Rothbury and Fred Wilkinson, state of Washington; two sisters, Mrs. Ad [sic - Ab] Ainger of Whitehall, and Mrs. Floyd Luchini of Alma; and 31 grandchildren. 
(from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Friday, 25 October 1940, pg. 2)

LEWIS--Services for Mrs. George E. Lewis, 1136 Hoyt St., Heights, will be held at the Lee Funeral Home Monday at 10 a. m., Rev. John K. Coolidge officiating.  She will be laid to rest in Oakhurst, Whitehall.  (from The Muskegon [Michigan] Chronicle, Friday, 25 October 1940, unknown page, obituary section)

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William James Wilkinson
(1874 - 1924)

WILKINSON – William James Wilkinson, aged 50, died Sunday evening at the home of his sister, Mrs. C. Thor, near Marne.  Services and interment will be at Whitehall, Mich.

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Harriet (Wood) Manning Crothers
(1822 - 1893)

    HARRIET CRUTHERS was born in New York, November 11, 1822, and died with a cancer February 14, 1893.
    The departed mother, who has been married twice (both husbands have passed on before) leaves one daughter and two sons to mourn her loss.  The funeral was held in Goodrigeville [sic - Goodrich, Michigan].  The writer preached the sermon from Psalms 90: 12.    J. A. MOTT  (from a Flint, Genesee County, Michigan-area newspaper, February 1893, unknown page)

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Mary Lucy (Wright) Strong *
(1859 - 1946)

STRONG – Mrs. Mary L. Strong, widow of Charles F. Strong, passed away in Stanwood, Wash., at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ethel Hastie, with whom she had made her home for several years.  Mrs. Strong was a resident of Grand Rapids for many years before going to the northwest.  Mrs. Strong is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Ethel Hastie, Mrs. Lillian Hoekstra and Mrs. Jessie Rathbun; three sons, Perlee, Frank and Edwin Strong; sixteen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.  Burial was at Woodburn, Ore.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Thursday, 19 September 1946, pg. 30)

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William Parker Wright *
(1830 - 1915)

WILLIAM P. WRIGHT
William P. Wright, 86 years old, died Saturday night at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Mary L. Strong, 1834 Palace avenue, S.W., following a long illness.  He leaves another daughter, Mrs. Celia Chapman, of this city.  The funeral will be held at the Lysen chapel at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning.  Burial will take place in White Cloud. [sic - burial apparently took place at Upper Fairfield Cemetery, Candor, Tioga Co., New York, where William's first wife, Anne Elizabeth Rockwell, was buried}
(from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Herald, Monday, 8 November 1915, pg. 2)

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X, Y, Z

Howard Merkel York *
(1898 - 1945)

Former Lake Orion Man Passes Away Suddenly
    Howard York, 47, former Lake Orion resident, died suddenly at his home on M-21, near Lapeer, last week Thursday.
    He was born in Ortonville [sic - other records indicate he was born in Goodrich] Sept. 17, 1898, and had lived in or near Lapeer for the past several years. Surviving are his widow and two sons, Howard Paul and Peter Alfred; also his step-mother, Mrs. Mary York, of Cadillac.
    Funeral services were held Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Baird Funeral Home, Lapeer, with burial in Stiles Cemetery. (from Orion Weekly Review [Lake Orion, Michigan], Friday, 30 November 1945, pg. 1)

Read about Howard Merkel York's life and family here.

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James L. York *
(1867 - 1933)

James L. York
     James L. York died Friday at his home in Lake Orion here following a long illness.  The body will be at his late residence until 10 a. m. Monday and service will be at Allen's Funeral Home at 2 p. m. Monday with burial in Goodrich cemetery.  Rev. F. R. Walker will officiate. 
(from Pontiac {Michigan] Daily Press, Saturday, 16 September 1933, pg. 6)

Read about James L. York's life and family here.

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Trijntje "Kate" (Zigterman) Bos Barsema *
(1857 - 1935)

BARSEMA – Mrs. Kate Barsema, aged 77, passed away Monday evening at the home of her son, Peter Barsema, Livingston-blvd., R. R. No. 4.  Surviving are two sons, Millard Bush of Coopersville and Peter Barsema; five daughters, Mrs. William Geldersma, Mrs. George DeVries, Mrs. Paul Breen, Mrs. Sena Holwerda and Mrs. Nicholas VanderZee; seventeen grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one brother, R. Sichterman of Coopersville.  Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2 o’clock at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Sena Holwerda, 713 Baxter, S. E.  Interment Woodlawn cemetery.  Arrangements by Holwerda.  (from The Grand Rapids [Michigan] Press, Wednesday, 30 January 1935, pg. 17)

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