Birth date: Mar 12, 1927 Death date: Mar 16, 2019
Joan Marie Japenga, age 92, of Grand Haven passed away Saturday, March 16, 2019, at North Ottawa Care Center. She was born March 12, 1927, in Grand Haven to Joseph and Marion (Witherell) Susterich. As a teenager, she loved tap dan Read Obituary
Gayle, Mary Jo, Pat, Bobby, Fran, Carole and Families, So sorry to read of the passing of Joan. She was a very special niece to my parents and cousin of my siblings and me. I am so glad that I got to visit with her a couple of years ago when I was in Michigan. She and Bob were such a perfect couple so I know they ae rejoicing being together again. May she rest in peace. Margaret (Begin) Thompson
Our deepest sympathy and prayers to you and your family. I remember Mary Jo in grade school and your dad coming to our house on Pennoyer to repair our TV. When attending grade school, your dad was our chaperon and he was really great with us kids. Your mother must have been just as wonderful.
Mike and Cheryl Tague
Gayle, Bobby, Mary Jo & Patty -
So sorry to hear your mom died. Speaking of your home on Taylor, boy do i have a LOT of memories at that home. So many sleep overs (right, Gayle?), can't even guess at how many times i was the 5th child for dinner and the times i'd come over with my dad on holidays to watch a football game in COLOR!!!! Your dad brought home one of the first color TVs in Grand Haven - not surprising because he sold and repaired TVs. In addition, i have a lot of memories of your family living behind us on Woodlawn in the VERY early days when our family's friendship began. Our mom's bowled together Monday night for probably 30 years on a team sponsored by Japenga TV Sales & Service. All of your memories certainly exceed mine and you all will have wonderful times talking about all the days spent you with your mom!!!! -hugs to all of you, marilew helmers
I am so sorry to learn of the loss of your mom. My mom, Bette De Vito, was a life long friend of Joan. They graduated from high school together, even played in the band together. I have so many fond memories of your mom and dad. Your dad, was the best television repairman ever. My mom and your mom often told stories of their times together as high school buddies, and beyond. Just recently, as I would go out for my evening walks, I would often pass the house on Taylor Street, only to find your mom sitting out in the shade in the driveway. I stopped often to chat and visit with her. We recalled old times and always talked about families. She was still calling my mom and they would visit over the phone. The first person I was going to tell about your mom's passing, was my mom. But, as you are aware, Bette passed away in June of last year.
Showers of blessing for you as you grieve for the loss of Joan. What a special friend she was to my mom and what special friends my mom and dad, and your mom and dad were to each other over so many years.
Michelle De Vito
