Mary Jean (Okkema) Kolk, our Gmo, aged 94, of Haslett, Michigan; born on August 27, 1929, she passed away on April 29, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family to be with her Savior. Mary Jean was born in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and called herself a Jersey Girl her entire life. She met her husband, Stephen Kolk, at Calvin College, where they sang in the Radio Choir and formed many lasting friendships. Mary loved music, playing the organ, and teaching piano for many years in Grand Rapids. She was a dedicated volunteer for Mayfield Christian School and the Withey Guild of Blodgett Hospital. Sunday dinners became a regular part of college life for many children of friends or family who attended Calvin and were away from home. She and Steve traveled the world together, with a highlight being family vacations in Cancun.
Mary Jean is survived by her children, Steve and Trudi Kolk, Jane and Dave Mulder, and Jeff Kolk and Deb Deters; her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Jason and Carol Kolk (Stella, Calvin), Jack and Elisa Kolk (Macarius, Anastacia, Kyprian), Jeff and Lindsey Mulder (Rosie, Deacon), Meg and Matt Fitzpatrick (Reese, Quinn, Kai), Tessa and Warren Krueger (Nora, Drew, Gigi, Sadie); her sister and brother-in-law, Florence and Garry Nieuwenhuis, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Steve, brothers and sister-in-law, Milo and Elinore Okkema, Matt and Doris Okkema.
The family will greet friends and relatives at River Terrace Church in East Lansing on Friday, May 10, 2024, at 11:00 am with a memorial service following at noon, Rev. Gary DeVries and niece, Rev. Marienna Okkema-Rhebergen officiating. As Mary Jean had style and loved clothing, memorial contributions may be made to Love Clothing Center, 531 Glendale, Lansing, Michigan 48910. Arrangements entrusted to Gorsline Runciman East Lansing Chapel.
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Love Clothing Center531 Glendale Ave., Lansing, Michigan 48910
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