Carole Jane VanOpynen's Obituary
Carole Jane VanOpynen, of Spring Lake, passed into the loving arms of Her Savior, Jesus Christ, on Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at home after a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born on June 25, 1942 to Orrin and Mary Jane (Thullen) Johns in Youngstown, Ohio. She graduated from Struthers High School class of 1960. Carole lived in Struthers, Ohio and later relocated to Michigan in the early 1970’s. She was a dedicated employee of Old Kent Bank, where she worked in customer service. She then continued working as a caregiver for many years. She was a faithful servant of Our Lord and Savior and was a prior member of First Congregational Church of Fruitport. While attending, she held the positions of both a Deaconess and Treasurer. She also participated in DeColores. In her earlier years, she was involved in both a bowling and softball league. Carole was blessed with a green thumb and had a passion for gardening. She loved hanging out by the pool, entertaining company, and always being a gracious host to her many friends. She will forever be remembered as “Sweet Carole” for her generous and caring personality. She is survived by her daughters, Jennifer Behm and Amy Savage; 5 grandchildren, Devon Behm, Shane Behm, Zac (Lisa) Savage, Mick McGregor and Zoe (Spencer Bonter) McGregor; 4 great-grandchildren, Lily, Landon, Elizabeth and Myla; best friend, Melanie Gee; 3 nieces, Barb (Rich) Rubenstahl, Karen Johns and Sue (John) Sanquist; nephew, Randy (Mary Pat) Affagato; and longtime companion and best friend, Ron DePung, his children and grandchildren. Carole was a cherished member of their family for many years. She was preceded in death by her parents; former husband, Richard VanOpynen; brothers, William (Tina) Johns and Thomas Johns; sisters, Marjorie (Joseph) Schneider and Betty (Peter) Affagato; and granddaughter, Corissa Berg. A Memorial Service will be held on June 25, 2022 in Lowellville Cemetery in Ohio. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Carole’s name can be made to the family (checks payable to Jennifer Behm, mailed to Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services 6291 S. Harvey Street Norton Shores, MI 49444) to help with funds for her memorial service. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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