Obituary

Remembering Brian Michael Genzink

Brian Michael Genzink, age 30, of Grand Rapids, formerly of New Jersey, passed away unexpectedly and was called to his heavenly home  on Tuesday, July 12, 2016. He was preceded  in death by his grandmother, Marilyn Talsma. Brian was a fun-loving person with a contagious smile. His gift of humor and ability to make people laugh was evident to all who knew him. He had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed spending time outdoors. He had a giving personality, always caring about the needs of others, and was a great friend. Brian graduated from Calvin College in 2008. He will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Michael and Laurie Genzink of New Jersey; his sister, Lisa Genzink; his brother, Scott Genzink; his grandparents, Marvin and Viola Genzink, Ted Talsma. He is also lovingly remembered by the families of Dave and Deb Robbins, Dave and Jane Mulder, Gary and Sarah Robinett, and numerous friends. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 16, 11 am at Ridgewood Christian Reformed Church, 1571 Baldwin Street, Jenison, with Rev. Matthew Deprez officiating.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday, July 15, from 2-4 and 6-9 pm at Ridgewood Christian Reformed Church. Memorial contributions may be made to New City Kids or to the American Diabetes Association.

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August 03, 2016 12:21pm

Genzink Family, I worked with Brian at New Moms in Chicago. Brian was a ray of light and a ball of energy, and we laughed all day while we shared some very cramped office space. I wanted to share a quick story—there was a diner down the street, Cozy Corner. Brian stopped there a few mornings a week for breakfast. Every now and then, we would go to the Cozy Corner with him for lunch. Whenever he walked in the door, the cooks and waitresses greeted him, and made sure to stop by our table to say hi, give him a hug, or check in on him. He knew everybody’s name, and they all loved him. Brian made friends wherever he went—it was such a gift. I was so sad to hear of Brian’s passing. He will be deeply missed.

— Hilary Morreale

August 03, 2016 12:06pm

Brian was a beloved + delightful staff member here at New Moms. We are saddened by the announcement of his passing. Our love + prayers are with you in this time of loss.

— Emily White Hodge

July 26, 2016 11:33am

To Brian's Family: I worked with Brian briefly at New Moms in Chicago. He was funny, warm, thoughtful and sincere. I am glad I had a chance to meet him. This season of grief and loss must be heavier than words can ever convey. When the darkness of sorrow overwhelms you, God's strength will hold you even more. We will pray for you at New Moms. Peace to his memory. Ellen

— Ellen Kogstad

July 22, 2016 3:15am

Our deepest sympathies go out to family and friends. We lift each of you up in prayer.

— Julie and Miles Everson

July 15, 2016 7:12pm

Dear Genzinks, Brian was my roommate after college and I very much enjoyed our time together. We had many merry moments and also many serious conversations of faith and he was a man who genuinely cared for people. I was very sad to hear that he has left us. This world has lost one good man and Heaven has gained one good soul. We pray that God will comfort you during this time of grieving.

— Marcus and Helen Ibrahim

July 15, 2016 4:38am

I am so very sorry for this devastating loss. My prayer is that, with time, you will be able to rest in the comfort of all our prayers upholding you. All my love.

— Chelsea Westra

July 15, 2016 2:49am

Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Genzink family. In this difficult time take comfort in the knowledge that Brian now rests in the arms of his heavely Father. In the days to come it is our prayer that God's grace surround you and give you strength and peace. Praying for all of you!

— Jane & Russ Stelpstra

July 14, 2016 6:09pm

We are shocked and saddened to hear the news of such a horrible tragedy in the home going of Brian. Our deep sympathy and continuous prayers. Our hearts grieve with you.

— Linda and John Bruins

July 14, 2016 5:24pm

Our deepest sympathies to all of you! May God wrap His comforting arms around you! Praying for strength and God's grace for the days and months ahead! ((((HUGS))))

— John and Karen Breur

July 14, 2016 3:53pm

My sincerest condolences to the Genzink family. I went to school with Brian, and although I hadn't seen Brian since high school, I can still remember vividly the good times we spent as kids playing at each other's houses. Brian was one of the good ones, and my heart breaks for his family and those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

— Steve Link

July 14, 2016 2:31pm

Genzink Family, We lift you up in our thoughts and prayers. Brian's smile and humor always brightened my day and I am blessed to become acquainted with him while in Chicago.

— Brian and Jessica Hogan

July 14, 2016 2:22pm

Our deepest sympathies to all of you at this time of tremendous sorrow. Yet we have a firm faith and full knowledge of God's amazing grace. Know that you are lifted up before that God of grace that he will provide you each with what you need.

— Al and Jean Lindsay

July 14, 2016 12:38pm

You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God's grace be with you as you walk through this difficult journey.

— Betty Gower

July 14, 2016 12:25pm

Genzink Family, We just don't have the words to express our sorrow when we heard of Brian's passing. We pray that God will surround you with his peace and comfort. Ken and Bev Smith

— Ken & Bev Smith

July 14, 2016 11:09am

Mike, Laurie, Lisa, Scott: There aren't enough words that can convey the sorrow we are feeling for all of you. May God grant you the peace that passes all understanding in this very difficult time. Brian will always be remembered as that fun loving guy. Our prayers are with you.

— Dean & Lois Smith

July 14, 2016 10:25am

To the Genzink Family: My deepest condolences to your family. I attended school with Brian and he was such a sweet soul. He will be so missed, You are all being lifted up in so many prayers.

— Wakefield Family

July 14, 2016 9:20am

To the Genzink Family, I lived with Brian for two years at Calvin, and wanted to say something that you and everyone else who ever met Brian already know- he was a truly genuine, down to earth, happy go lucky kid, and I consider myself lucky to have known him. Prayers for all of you in this unimaginably difficult time.

— Michael Bulthuis

July 14, 2016 8:47am

I am so sorry to hear about your tragic loss. My thoughts are with you during this very difficult time.

— Olivia Tornick

July 14, 2016 8:29am

My deepest sympathies to the Genzink family. Brian was a former team member at work and I was very sorry to hear of his passing. I will always remember his smile and his love of cycling and fishing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time.

— Jenna Boley

July 14, 2016 7:36am

Dear Mike, Laurie, Lisa, and Scott. My deepest sympathies for your loss. We have not been in contact in many years, but kept up with your family through Kevin's Mom. May God grant you His Peace and Healing Mercies during your time of loss. In His Precious Name, Barb Kunnen

— Barbara J. Kunnen

July 14, 2016 7:21am

Mike, Laurie, Lisa, and Scott, Our deepest sympathy for your loss. We pray you all may feel God's loving arms wrapped around you, giving comfort and peace to you, now and always. Ken & Pam Hoogerhyde

— Ken & Pam Hoogerhyde

July 13, 2016 7:08pm

We are praying for you durning this difficult time. We mourn with you and pray that God gives you the strength you need hour by hour. Russell, Rebecca & family.

— Russell Unrath

July 13, 2016 6:53pm

I had the opportunity to be a co-worker of Brian's for a short time. His positive attitude was an inspiration to me. The guy had an incredible smile that washed away all my concerns and self pity. But it wasn't just the smile; he had an awesome spirit behind that smile. The world needs more people like Brian. My sympathy to his family - he'll be missed.

— Jim Madole

July 13, 2016 5:52pm

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I will always remember Brian's kindness and smile which was contagious with anyone he came in contact with. Wishing you peace and strength during this difficult time.

— Heather Underwood

July 13, 2016 5:43pm

Dear Genzink family. My heart is so sad. Your are in my thoughts, heart, and prayers. Praying that you feel the presence of our God who comforts all His children who mourn.

— Deborah Andrews

July 13, 2016 4:50pm

Genzink family, I pray the Lords grace and peace be with you during this painful time. We mourn with you and pray for you.

— David Bogertman

July 13, 2016 4:12pm

To all the Genzinks from all the Tyvolls - We are so heavy hearted these days for the loss of Brian. Our prayers are that Jesus will wrap His arms around all 4 of you at this time. Much love from Stan, Betsy and Justin

— Betsy Tyvoll

July 13, 2016 3:27pm

To the Genzink family - our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of great sorrow. May our Lord comfort and sustain you during this difficult time. - Doug, Judy, Brad, Tracey & Jamie Dykstra

— The Dykstra Family

July 13, 2016 2:57pm

We cannot even begin to imagine the depth of your pain. We will be continuing to lift you all up in prayer as you walk through this difficult journey. We are so sorry.

— Oran & Rita Johnson

July 13, 2016 2:56pm

Dear Genzink Family, I had Brian as a student at Eastern Christian and can still remember him as a middle schooler. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Lifting all of you up in prayers.

— Maria VanderBrug Bultsma

July 13, 2016 2:47pm

We lift you up in prayer and offer our sincere sympathy in the loss of your precious son. We know we will meet again, as our only comfort in life or in death is that we belong, body and soul, to our faithful Savior, Jesus Christ.

— Peter and Ginny Steensma

July 13, 2016 1:45pm

Heaven gained a beautiful soul. Rest in Peace Brian we look forward to seeing you again one day at the feet of our Heavenly Father. Our sincerest sympathies to the Genzink family during this time.

— Preiskines Family

July 13, 2016 1:38pm

Our deepest sorrow on the death of Brian. He was such a wonderful young man. Even though we haven't seen him all that often in the last several years, we remember him fondly as a young boy growing up with Bret. Your family will be in our prayers.

— Kevin & Lynn Roukema

July 13, 2016 1:36pm

My deepest sympathies at the loss of your Son and Brother. He was a great person to work with, caring and genuine. May God be with you during this time. I pray for Brian to rest in peace.

— Rena Wodell

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