Virginia "Ginnie" Merriman

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Virginia "Ginnie" Gorden-Merriman, who peacefully passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025. Born on November 7, 1937, in Holland, Michigan, Ginnie was the beloved daughter of Carl Van Raalte and Stella Van Der Kolk.

Ginnie was a proud graduate of Eastern High School and dedicated 26 years of service to the State of Michigan. A woman of deep faith, she was an active and devoted member of Garrison Hills Wesleyan Church. She found joy in fellowship and community, participating in the Red Hat Society and the Battle Creek Shuffleboard League, where her skill and competitive spirit led her to numerous tournament victories. Her love for helping others extended to her volunteer work at Bronson Hospital. Ginnie also had a love for the outdoors, enjoying camping trips and traveling to new places.

Ginnie will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, competitive spirit, and love for games, puzzles, and gathering with loved ones. Her laughter, strength, and warmth touched the lives of many, leaving behind a legacy of joy, resilience, and cherished memories.

Ginnie’s greatest joy in life was her family. She is survived by her daughter Carla (Bill) McCarrick of Lansing, MI; grandchildren: Jason (Erin) Griffith of Laingsburg, Kevin (Tia) Hopkins of Eaton Rapids, Carl Hopkins of Lansing, Brent (Danielle) McCarrick of Rockford, April Perry and Bonnie Perry of Lansing; great-grandchildren: Trinity Trine, Bailey Griffith, Emily Griffith, Gavin McCarrick, Kendall McCarrick and Deklin Perry; and nephews: Dave, Mark, Eugene, Matt and Casey Rapelje.

She is preceded in death by her parents: Carl and Stella Van Raalte; husbands: Arnold Gorden and Albert Merriman; daughter Paula Perry; sister Shirley Rapelje; and niece Karen Short.

A funeral service to honor Ginnie's life will be held Friday, April 4, 2025, at 11:00am with a visitation one hour prior at True North Community Church, 3200 West Willow Rd, Lansing, MI 48917. A graveside service will follow at 2:30pm at East Lawn Memory Gardens. Serving as pallbearers will be Jason Griffith, Kevin Hopkins, Carl Hopkins, Brent McCarrick, Bailey Griffith, and Josh Carter.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her honor to a charity of your choice.

May she rest in peace, forever in our hearts.