Debra Lynn Mellema's Obituary
Mrs. Debra Lynn “Debbie” Mellema, age 69, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, April 27, 2023 following a brief battle with brain cancer. Debbie was born in Muskegon on August 27, 1953 to John and Lois (Bodenberg) Dornbos. She graduated from Central Michigan University where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education. On October 1, 1976, she married Daniel M. Mellema and they resided in Norton Shores. Debbie worked for Muskegon Public Schools for 25 years prior to her retirement. She was a member of Covenant Life Church where she was active in Bible Study and Women’s Ministries. Debbie enjoyed traveling, cooking, reading, sewing, and decorating her home. Most importantly, Debbie loved her family, and especially cherished her grandchildren. She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Dan; two daughters, Stacey (Mark) McCord of Alpharetta, Georgia and Sara (August “AJ”) Christian of Fruitport; five grandsons, Jacob, Aaron, and Jesse McCord and Pierce and Colton Christian; her mother, Lois Dornbos; two sisters, Gayle (Robert) Mandigo and Lori (Robert) Leonard; and brother, Gordon (Jane) Dornbos. VISITATION will be held from 5-8 PM Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. FUNERAL SERVICE will be 11:00 AM Thursday, May 4, 2023 at Covenant Life Church (101 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417) with Pastor Marshall Holtvluwer and Pastor Bob DeVries officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Harbor Hospice Foundation or to Covenant Life Church. You may sign her online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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