Dr. Marla Jo Warren (Boelkins), age 60, was released from this world into the arms of her Savior on Sunday, March 20, 2016. Marla was preceded in death by her parents, Wally and Marge Boelkins of Grand Rapids, and her parents-in-law, Jack and Pat Warren of Mason. She is survived by her husband Tom and their children, Michael Warren, Joseph Warren, and Holly (Kyle) Corder. She is also survived by her siblings: Kathy (Kent) Van Til, Jan (Chip) Talen, Chris (Dave) Konyndyk, Chuck (Chris) Boelkins, Ann (Guy) DeVries; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Marla attended Calvin College, earned an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University, a master’s degree from UCLA, and a medical doctor’s degree from the MSU College of Human Medicine. She served mid-Michigan as a practicing child and adolescent psychiatrist, fulfilling her life’s calling to help children and families through her vocation. Marla was a tenacious woman who rarely sat still; only a giant jigsaw puzzle could keep her in one place for more than an hour.
She enjoyed all things beautiful - especially the flowers surrounding her home and the bounty of her garden, which she shared with friends and family. She was known for presenting beautifully wrapped gifts and possessing a bright sense of style. She also enjoyed relaxing at the lake and water skiing on the glass-smooth water. Marla and her husband Tom enjoyed more than 35 years as husband and wife. Their life was full of music, dancing, and travel adventures. She was immensely proud of her children, speaking of them with pride and admiration. They were so dearly loved by their mom. While cancer challenged her body, it never eroded her faith. She lived her passion for Jesus by loving selflessly, engaging in many church activities, and consistently expressing confidence in her eternal destination with her Savior.
We are so thankful Marla no longer needs to battle cancer but is whole and healthy for all eternity.
Visitation will be at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Ball Dunn Chapel, 621 S. Jefferson St., Mason, MI on Thursday, March 24, 2016, at 1:00-3:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held at River Terrace Church in East Lansing on Friday, March 25, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. Those desiring may make contributions to World Renew, 1700 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508.
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