Cora Josina Haagsman

Cora Josina Haagsman, age 99, entered into the arms of her Lord and Savior Saturday, March 18, 2023. Born to the late Cornelius and Mattie Boonstoppel on Sunday, December 30, 1923 in Rotterdam, Netherlands, she was one of five siblings. Growing up, she always had a higher sense of fashion. She had a very cosmopolitan childhood growing up in Rotterdam. Cora and her sister, Tirza, owned and operated a sewing school before the war. One of her proudest memories as a child was going to collect the rent with her father and just being able to spend time with Dad.

She and her family endured the terrors of WWII. Eventually, her father moved the family to Waddinxveen, Netherlands, where she would meet and marry the love of her life, Jacob “Jack” Haagsman. In 1947, the entire Boonstoppel family moved to the United States.

Cora later developed a love for painting and taught at the Wyoming Art Institute for many years, winning art shows and various awards.

She was a devoted mother and grandmother who deeply loved her family. Throughout her life and struggles, she cherished her faith in Christ and was devoted to living out her life as He did, by “loving one another.”

She is survived by her sons Jake (Jane) Haagsman, Paul (Lisa) Haagsman; grandchildren Hunter, Chester, Robb (Emily), Brian (Tess); great-grandchildren Hermina, Ronnie; and many extended family and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Jacob “Jack” Haagsman; her siblings Betty, Susanna, Tirza, and Casey.

A funeral service remembering Cora’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418, with visitation from 11-11:30 a.m. prior to the service. In memory of Cora and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Right to Life. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresgrandville.com.