Marilyn J. Kerkstra

Marilyn Jean Kerkstra, age 85, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 17, 2025. She passed away peacefully at Blodgett Hospital, after many months of illness.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Neal “Bud” and Helen, and her husband John of 62 years.

Marilyn was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on August 27, 1939. Throughout her life, Marilyn cared dearly for her family and befriended many, building many lifelong relationships. Her strong work ethic and resilience lives on through her three sons. Marilyn enjoyed creating, from her cooking to expressing her artistry with ceramics and most famous German chocolate cake that she delivered with love to her boys for every one of their birthdays. She worked side by side with John for many years, but it was her firm faith that sustained her through life’s journey. After retiring Marilyn continued to work in the D&W deli until just recently, and was involved in her church family.

A devoted wife, sister, mother and grandma, Marilyn will be lovingly missed by her family including; her sister Sue (Tom), sons, Roger (Kathleen), Rick (Deborah), Brian (Christine), her grandsons, Brandon (Melissa), Erik, A.J., Sidney (Jessica), Benjamin, Dan (Olivia); her granddaughters, Danielle (Alec), Jenni (Sam), Serena, Angeline (Kevin), Brook (Zach); her great-grandsons, Logan, Lincoln, Brady, Bentley, Travis, Max, Henry, Archer; her great-granddaughter, Luella, and extended family and friends and her dog Nico. She was loved dearly by everyone who knew her.

A funeral service and viewing will be hosted at New Community Church (2340 Dean Lake Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505) on August 25, 2025. Visitation will be from 10am to11am, with a service officiated by Pastor Mark Kirsch from 11am to 12pm and a luncheon to follow. Memorial contributions can be made to New Community Church.

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