Marilynn A. Hoekema's Obituary
Mrs. Marilynn Ann Hoekema, age 67, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday evening, September 19, 2015, following a lengthy illness; and woke up in the arms of her loving Savior. She was born June 13, 1948 in Grand Rapids, MI to Hilbert and Josephine (DeYoung) Schans; and has resided in the Muskegon area most of her life. Marilynn had provided children’s day care in her home for many years and also worked at Muskegon Floral Company. She was a member of Faith United Reformed Church, West Olive, MI, where she was known as the “Smarties Lady” for her candy ministry. She had previously sung in its choir and attended its Adult Sunday School. Marilynn was formerly a member of Muskegon’s First Christian Reformed Church where she and her husband Pete were Youth Group leaders for 7 years. Marilynn was also active in the lives of her children at Muskegon Christian School and Western Michigan Christian High School. She enjoyed her “green thumb” and crafts. On August 30, 1969 she married Peter A. Hoekema; and he survives along with 2 children, Christopher (Erin) Hoekema of Grandville and Carrie Smith of Muskegon; 7 grandchildren, Grace, Aubrey and Charlie Hoekema, Bailey, Caleb, Clay and Ethan Smith; her mother, Josephine Schans of Jupiter, FL; and 7 siblings, Donna (David) Brown of FL, Roger (Elly) Schans of PA, Harvey (Gail) Schans, Paul (Bonnie) Schans, Doris (Doug) Vanderlaan, Steve (Sue) Schans and Anna Marie (George) Scholl, all of FL; her brother-in-law, Paul (Marilyn) Hoekema; and by many nieces and nephews. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held 11:00 AM Friday at Faith United Reformed Church, 8270 120th Ave, West Olive, MI 49460. VISITATION with Marilynn’s family will be 5-8:00PM Thursday at the Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231-798-1100). For a more lasting memorial you are asked to consider the Organ Fund of Faith URC; Harbor Hospice or Gideons International. You are also invited to sign the family’s Online Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com
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