Elsa Rose Essink

Elsa was born in Holland to John and Esther (Kragt) Van Den Berge and was a lifelong resident of the area.

Growing up on the family farm where the current 16th Street Meijer is now located, Elsa at an early age was no stranger to hard work. The 4th born of five children, she had her share of chores to do daily. A reward for hard work, she would then enjoy time with her horse Pal, who she would show at 4H Club.

Elsa graduated from Holland Christian High School, and worked as a waitress at various restaurants, including downtown Holland favorites such as Pietro’s, 8th Street Grille and Hops. She absolutely loved downtown Holland - from the connections she made with many business owners and restaurant guests, to the beautiful flowers and architecture that make 8th Street unique.

Elsa always smiled the brightest when she was surrounded by flowers. She knew everything about them, and caring for them warmed her spirit. She loved flowers so much, she and her husband Herschel tended to flowers for family and friends, as well as Hops, where she used to work.

Elsa also cared for so many people in so many ways. She always had a special energy and spirit to help customers, friends, co-workers and family. Those blessed to know her will always remember how much she did for so many.

She was preceded in death by her brothers Willard and John Van Den Berge, brother-in-law Robert Vandenberg, brother-in-law Dale Aalderink, sister-in-law Margaret Abma, sister-in-law Becky Essink and brother-in-law Robert Essink.

Elsa is survived by her husband Herschel of Zeeland; son Chad and daughter-in-law Jacki Williams, and daughter Jennifer (Joel) Pyle; grandchildren Garak Postma, Kasidy (Maxwell) Byers, and Katelyn Kuzmanko; siblings Gus (Jean) Van Den Berge, Karen Van Den Berge and Lyla Vandenberg; in-laws Ruth Aalderink, Floyd (Sheila) Essink, Ron (Kim) Essink, and Wayne Essink.

A Celebration of Life gathering for Elsa will be held on Saturday, May 17 from 11 AM to 2 PM at Lakeshore Memorial Services - 11939 James St. Holland, MI 49424.