Evelyn H Holwerda

Evelyn was born in 1933, in northern New Jersey, graduated from Calvin College and married Donald. They settled in northern New Jersey, she did some teaching, and then started a family. They had four sons, Greg, Doug, John and Dan who kept her on her toes!

Mom taught us the things that mattered (even though we may not have realized it at the time) i.e. the message of the Bible, think past yourself, and work hard.

She was fascinated and thrilled by the beauty of nature! A babbling brook, a blooming flower, and a buzzing bee all made her happy, made her smile and made her comment favorably, and often excitedly.

On the inanimate side, a pretty dish, a well made purse, and a chair with history got her attention.

She enjoyed visiting with family and friends and loved to write and receive letters.

She spent a lot of time in the kitchen, loved to cook and prepare food, and was a strong proponent of healthy eating long before it became popular. The window over the kitchen sink gave her a great view of our backyard and garden. She put considerable thought into the color spectrum of a fruit cup, the dish it would be served in, and the sprig of mint on top, even though we tossed that aside almost immediately.

We moved (kind of kidnapped) her from New Jersey to move her into Raybrook after the effects of a stroke and dementia made caring for self and home too much.

Raybrook was a true blessing. It is a Christian Community of people that she could share meals, activities and love with.

Mrs. Evelyn H. Holwerda age 92, of Grand Rapids, passed away on December 28, 2024. She was preceded in death by her husband, Don. Evelyn is survived by her sons, Greg and Cheryl Holwerda; Douglas Holwerda, John Holwerda and Dan Holwerda; grandsons, Aidan and Brandon Holwerda; sisters, Hazel Lautenbach and Bett and Robert Hough; brother-in-law, John and Trudy Holwerda; and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service service for Evelyn and her son, John, will be held on Saturday April 12 at 11 AM at Cutlerville East Christian Reformed Church, 501 68th St SE 49548. Visitation will be for 1 hr prior to the service. Contributions in her memory may be made to Eastern Christian School Association. Celebrate Evelyn’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at heritagelifestory.com