Patricia Hoogerheide

A remarkable woman inside and out, Patricia Hoogerheide’s legacy is one of boundless kindness and compassion. She was a constant source of quiet strength, even in the most difficult of times, and she faced every challenge that came her way with grace and determination. Nothing brought Patricia greater joy than surrounding herself with her family and friends. Her zest for life was contagious, and she exemplified what it meant to love those around her unconditionally. Patricia will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

The early 1950s were some exciting years to be an American. The economy was thriving following the end of WWII, and as the world settled back into regular patterns of life, the historic baby boom was underway. Televisions were becoming increasingly popular, bringing iconic shows such as The Lone Ranger into many homes across the country. It was during this influential time that William and Margaret Monsma were awaiting the arrival of their sixth baby with breathless excitement. On December 21 of 1950, they were so happy to announce the birth of their daughter, who they named Patricia.

In her younger years, Patricia enjoyed a childhood typical of her generation. She was raised in the family home alongside her five older siblings, Brent, Norm, Lorain, Mary, and Kathy, and her younger sister, Crystal. Patricia had fond memories of family camping trips at the Wabasis Campground. She attended local schools and graduated from Grandville High School, eager to see what the future held in store.

It wasn’t long after graduating high school that Patricia met the young man who would quickly become the love of her life. His name was Gary Hoogerheide, and the two were first introduced through family connections. Patricia and Gary fell head over heels in love, and they were soon united in marriage in 1969. The couple would go on to spend more than 40 wonderful years together, building a family and fostering countless memories as husband and wife. They especially loved driving through Shenandoah Valley whenever they made a trip down to Florida.

Of all the things Patricia loved in life, nothing meant more to her than her family. She was overjoyed to become a mother to her two children, Jeff and Susan. Patricia was an amazing mother, caretaker, and homemaker. Though she wasn’t one to cook often, one of her love languages was baking cookies, cakes, and sweets for her family. Once her children were older, Patricia entered the workforce to help provide for herself and those who depended on her. Over the years, she worked various jobs at Great Day Foods, Michigan Bulb, and Schafer’s Bread Store. Later in life, Patricia thrived in her role as a grandmother to her many grandchildren. She considered herself blessed to watch her family grow to include so many loved ones.

As we gather to honor the overflowing life of Patricia Hoogerheide, it is easy to celebrate a woman so dedicated to making those around her feel loved. She was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others, and there was no one who worked harder than she did. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Patricia never missed a chance to hold her loved ones close. Her heart of gold allowed her to be a blessing in so many lives. Though she is already so deeply missed, Patricia leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that her friends and family will always keep close.

Patricia Hoogerheide, age 74, of Pierson, passed away peacefully at home with her children by her side on September 3, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gary, in 2011; as well as her siblings, Brent Monsma, Norman Monsma and Crystal Harris.

Patti is survived by her children: Jeff and Danetta Hoogerheide of Rockford, Susan and Brian Vandermate of Grand Rapids; grandchildren: Cody (Desirae) Hoogerheide, Shelby Hoogerheide, Katelyn (Zack) Cardinal, Evan (Lemi Vargas) Vandermate, Aaron Vandermate, Kaden Vandermate, Alayna (Braden Tolsma) Vandermate, and Lauren Cali Vandermate; Dan, her longtime friend; her siblings, Lorain Krenecki, Mary Daling and Kathy (Andy) Vanvliet; brother-in-laws Greg (Jenny) Hoogerheide, Garold (Diana) Hoogerheide; and nieces and nephews.

All are welcome to visit with Patti’s family for a Celebration of Life on Thursday, September 11, 2025 from 11AM - 1PM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes, Alt and Shawmut Hills Chapel (2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Corewell Health Hospice.