Ernestine M. VanderKooi's Obituary
Ernestine Marie VanderKooi went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, April 1, 2011 in Muskegon. She was born on September 6, 1926 in Detroit, and resided in Muskegon most of her life. After graduating from Muskegon Heights High School, Ernestine worked for Norge in Muskegon as a secretary and then spent several years working for Capital Airlines in air traffic control. In 1948, she married Harry VanderKooi and he preceded her in death on March 29, 2007. Ernestine was very active in her children and grandchildren’s lives; she was always ready to lend a helping hand when it was needed. Ernestine was an avid reader and was well known for her hospitality to others throughout her lifetime. She attended Muskegon and Grand Haven Gospel Chapels and later in life Bethel Baptist Church in Muskegon. SURVIVORS include 2 daughters, Janet (James) Pascavis of Norton Shores and Terri VanderKooi of Middleville; grandchildren, Jim Pascavis and Jessica Pascavis; special friend, Joyce Domire; 3 sisters, Toni and Bud Regan of Clinton Township, MI, Kathleen “Jo” Pittman of Lancaster, CA, and Donalda Hodges of Detroit, MI; other loving family members, Leo and Carolyn VanderKooi, Lyle and Eleanor VanderKooi, John and Jeri Hamil, John and Thelma VanderKooi, and Elfriede VanderKooi; she is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Ernestine was also preceded in death by daughter, Susan Kay VanderKooi; and sister, Donna Pugh. Ernestine’s family wishes to give a special thank you to Harbor Hospice for Ernestine's care. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be 12PM noon Saturday, April 9, 2011 at Bethel Baptist Church in Muskegon (1066 E. Byron Rd.) with Rev. Doug VanderMolen officiating. VISITATION with the family will be 1 hour prior to the service. Burial will take place in Mona View. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to one of Ernestine’s beloved churches, Bethel Baptist Church, Grand Haven Gospel Chapel or Harbor Hospice. Share memories with the family online at www.sytsemafh.com. Arrangements by The Lee Chapel, Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc. 6291 S. Harvey St. 231-798-1100.
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