Hollis Anne Gladstone

Hollis “Holly” Anne Gladstone, age 66 of Grand Rapids, passed away surrounded by her family on November 23, 2022. She was born December 24, 1955 to Marilou Steffens and David Gladstone in Grand Rapids.

Growing up in Grand Rapids, Holly and her three siblings were often left to their own devices as their mother worked to provide for their family. Holly was always known as the life of the party, she had the ability to make anyone laugh.

Becoming a mom at 25 meant Holly had to learn to balance raising her son and having fun, which she did well. Holly worked for over 45 years for the Grand Rapids Public Schools as a bus driver and route planner. As a two-time cancer survivor, Holly was active in Gilda’s Club, helping out families dealing with grief. She had a big heart and really would help out anyone who needed it. Holly’s capacity to love and to forgive could never be forgotten.

As a globetrotter, Holly visited many states and countries where some people would make friends, she made new family members. Most important were her grandchildren, to whom she was “Gigi”. Together they would go swimming, visit comic book stores, and various nature centers. It was important to Holly that while they were having fun, they were also learning something.

Holly is survived by her son, Matt, as well as his sons William and Benjamin; brothers David and Scott (Julia) Gladstone and their children Luke and Elizabeth; sister Deborah Gladstone-Comeau and her son Zachary. She was preceded in death exactly two years previously by her mother, Marilou; father David; as well as close friend Bill Busma.

In keeping with Holly's wishes, cremation has taken place. Services will take place in the Spring of 2023, which will be announced at a later date.