Bette Essink

Bette Doris Essink, age 99, of Jenison, went to be with the Lord on Monday, February 6, 2023. She was born February 1, 1924, to parents, Arthur and Jeannette Oudbier. Her family first lived on Sheridan in Grand Rapids and then moved to Delwood Ave. in Wyoming in 1929. There they joined Eighth Reformed Church where Bette has been a faithful member ever since. After graduating from Lee High School in 1942, she proudly served her country as Rosie the Riveter at Johnson Furniture and American Seating making gliders and airplanes for the war. Bette was a very active person her entire life. Several of the ‘Essink girl cousins’ called her their “Feisty Aunt Bette”. She was active in her church, Red Hats, Georgetown Seniors, and the Wyoming Senior Center, of which her parents were founding members. She liked being by Lake Michigan, traveling, and going to casinos. She always had her envelope of casino money ready to go. Bette was preceded in death by husband, Arnold Essink (1986); daughter, Nancy Alsover (2009); her parents; sister, Phyllis Williams; brother, Adrian Oudbier. She is survived by her daughters and their spouses, Joan and Douglas Neuman, Carol and Don Jansma; son-in-law, William Alsover; grandchildren, Dr. Melissa Neuman (Geoffrey Goodell), Will Alsover, Jenn Leach (Mike), Elizabeth Johnson (Chad), Christine Jansma (Mike Campau); great-grandchildren, Kendall, James, Elijah, Lydia, and Levi; sister-in-law, Jan Oudbier; numerous nieces and nephews; plus members of Ralf’s family. Bette is also survived by her loving partner, Ralf Hammond, whom she met eleven years ago while bowling. He said he got up the nerve to ask her out to dinner, and of course Bette quickly said yes, never turning down an invitation to dinner. The family wants to thank Ralf for everything he has done for Mom, taking care of her and being by her side until her passing. Bette often said that Ralf “treats me like a princess”. The family would like to thank the staff at Willow Woods and Faith Hospice for the care in making Mom’s last days so comfortable. Those who wish to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the American Cancer Society (in honor of Bette’s daughter, Nancy) or Faith Hospice. Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, with Pastor Harry Koops officiating. The funeral will be livestreamed and can be viewed via the funeral home website by clicking on the livestreams and recording tab. The burial will take place at Georgetown Township Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Monday from 1:00-1:45 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the service.