Elfriede B. VanderKooi's Obituary
Elfriede Babette (Hacker) VanderKooi, age 85 went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 12, 2014 in Muskegon, MI after a long battle with Alzheimers. She was born on May 15, 1928 to Fritz and Käthe (Scheurpfiug) Hacker in Petersaurach, Germany, coming to the United States in 1947. She married Donald John VanderKooi Sr on July 26, 1947 in Muskegon and he preceded her in death on Nov 14, 1987. Elfriede had worked for Muskegon Public Schools until her retirement in 1990. She attended Grand Haven Gospel Chapel. Elfriede enjoyed her family, knitting, crocheting, yard sales, shopping and baking cookies. She volunteered and served many years at Bair Lake Bible Camp. Elfriede was a dear friend to many and was loved by everyone. SURVIVORS include 1 daughter Gisela (Charlie) Barnes, and 4 sons, Ron (Sandy), Don (Judy), Steve (Robin) and Mark (Sharon) VanderKooi all of Muskegon; 22 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, a dear friend Warren “Bud” Mong, 2 sisters, Marga Knoll and Betty Schwarz, a brother Gűnter Hacker and their families in Germany; other loving family members are Leo (Carolyn), Lyle (Eleanor), Thelma VanderKooi and John (Jeri) Hamil. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Elfriede was preceded in death by her husband Donald, her parents, a grandson-in-law and great grandson. Elfriede’s family wishes to give a special thank you to Sanctuary of the Oaks and Harbor Hospice for their loving care. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday April 17, 2014 at 11:00am at The Lee Chapel 6291 S. Harvey St. 231-798-1100 with Pastor Ken Shady officiating. VISITATION with the family will be 1 hour prior to the service. Burial will take place in Oakwood Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice and Bair Lake Bible Camp 12500 Prang St. Jones, MI 49061.
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