Donna Kay Van Zytveld's Obituary
Mrs. Donna Kay Van Zytveld, age 98, passed Friday, December 4, 2020 in Norton Shores, Michigan. She was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on September 9, 1922 to Luther and Clara (Hankinson) Willard. Donna graduated from Union High School before attending Western Michigan University. After two years of college, Donna went to work at American Seating to help support her family during WWII. She met and fell in love with a coworker, Arthur James Van Zytveld. They were married on May 6, 1944. After raising their family, Donna returned to college earning a Bachelor of Education degree. She spent many years teaching in the Spring Lake School District prior to her retirement in 1985. Donna was a lifelong member of Trinity Congregation Church where she had taught Sunday School, youth group, and volunteered in many different capacities. Donna was a kind, determined, hardworking, and classy woman. Her love for the outdoors, sports, and activity led her family on numerous unforgettable adventures. She was active with 4-H Club and enjoyed sewing and gardening. She is survived by two children, Sherry (Peter) Brown and Ken (Norma) Van Zytveld; two grandchildren, Earin (Chuck) Friedbauer and Christopher Brown; two step-grandsons, Aaron and Brian Buder; two great-grandsons, Devan and Gabe; and her sister, Doris Lambert. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Van Zytveld; parents; brother, Ken Willard; and her faithful dog, Bo. Due to Covid-19, no formal services will be held. MEMORIALS in her memory may be directed to Seminole Shores Staff Enrichment (850 Seminole Road, Norton Shores, MI 49441) or to Spectrum Hospice (750 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503). You may sign her online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.
What’s your fondest memory of Donna?
What’s a lesson you learned from Donna?
Share a story where Donna's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Donna you’ll never forget.
How did Donna make you smile?