Carol R. Folkert's Obituary
Mrs. Carol Folkert, age 72, of Spring Lake passed away Sunday, August 30, 2020 at home after a three-year battle with cancer. She left this world much the same as she lived, full of love and faith. She was born April 20, 1948 in Grand Haven to Louis and Betty (Groeneveld) Rycenga. On June 12, 1970 she married David F. Folkert, and he preceded her in death on September 23, 2010.
Carol was a graduate of Grand Haven Christian School, Western Michigan Christian High School and Calvin University. Carol was an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Grand Haven, Michigan. The family business, Harbor Steel, was an important part of her life where she served as a respected advisor, caring employer and generous steward of resources. Carol had a passion for art and served the Muskegon Museum of Art for nearly 30 years. She was a life-long learner who loved reading, traveling the world, and lending a listening ear to anyone in need. Those who knew her commented on her kindheartedness, quiet confidence, and empathy. She shared her joy of learning by collecting and giving children’s books to her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and countless others. She embodied Christ’s love to everyone through her forgiving and accepting nature. Her contagious smile will be missed by all who knew her.
Carol is survived by two children: Cindy (Brad) Haverkamp of Grand Rapids, and Todd (Abbey) Folkert of Spring Lake; her loving grandchildren: Caroline and Maria Haverkamp, and Christian, Lucia and Francesca Folkert; siblings: Mary (Ron) Retsema of Norton Shores, Sharon (Rod) Pell of Spring Lake, Barbara (Bruce) VanHeukelem of Oak Park, IL, and John (Marie) Rycenga of Grand Haven; sister-in-law: Carole (John) Whittemore of Belmont, MA; dear friend Ken Post; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her loving granddaughter, Olivia Haverkamp.
Funeral Services will be 11:00 AM Saturday, September 5, 2020 at the South Portico at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 South Harvey St. Norton Shores, MI 49444. Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 PM Friday, September 4, 2020 at the South Portico at The Lee Chapel as well. Interment will take place in Spring Lake Township Cemetery. Memorials in memory of Carol may be given to the Muskegon Museum of Art or Grand Haven Christian School. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at http://www.sytsemafh.com.
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