Arena Cornelia Smith

Arena Cornelia Smith, age 97, of Jenison, passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 16, 2017.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Smith in 1977.  She proudly served her country during WWII as a 1^st Lt. Nurse in the Army.  Following her military service, she continued her nursing career in New Jersey and Michigan until she retired.  Arena gave of her time and talents in many ways at Ridgewood Church, where she was a member for many years.  She was mom to Rachel and James Holtvluwer, Paul and Julie Smith, Laura and Phil Bode, David and Jean Smith, Aren and Elisabeth Smith.  She was “Grammie” to Ben and Andrea Westdorp, Joe and Holly Westdorp, Susan and Kevin Rozema, Kate and Jed Lindberg, Henry Smith, Joshua and Erica Bode, Jacob and Jamie Bode, Beth and Brad Schoen, Fabian and Ariel Smith, Audrey Smith and 15 great grandchildren.  A special thanks to all the staff and caregivers at Cambridge Manor for the kindess, love and respect Arena received.  It will always be remembered.  Funeral services will be held Tuesday 11 am at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Directors (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, with Chaplain Rick Kiekintveld and Rev. Joshua Bode officiating.  Interment Georgetown Township Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Monday from 5-8 pm at the funeral home and Tuesday from 10-11am at the funeral home prior to the service.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Cambridge Manor.