Obituary

Remembering Ellen Stelpstra

Ellen Ruth Stelpstra, age 54, of Jenison, left her earthly home to be with her Lord and Savior after a short, courageous battle with cancer on Thursday, September 15, 2022. Ellen was a dedicated caregiver and hard worker for over 34 years at Cambridge Manor. Ellen loved the outdoors and walking her dogs. She was preceded in death by her father, John Stelpstra. She will be lovingly remembered by her mother, Ruth Stelpstra; siblings, Trudy Vander Kooy, Jonathan and Barbara Stelpstra, Maria and Mooya Muhwanga; several nieces and nephews; and her dear friend, Arlene. A memorial service will be held on Monday, September 19, 2022, at 11 a.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Pastor Rick Kiekintveld officiating. The burial will take place at Georgetown Township Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Sunday, September 18, from 3-5 p.m. at the funeral home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Lake Haven Rescue (Animal Shelter).

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So very sorry for the loss of your daughter and sister. In her smile I see the sweet little girl, as I best knew Ellen. I will pray you experience God’s peace and comfort alongside the piercing heartache and emptiness. Our hope is in God but the days of separation between now and eternity are hard. You and all who loved Ellen will be remembered daily.

— Judy Tuinenga

I'm so very sad to hear about Ellen ,she was such a nice person and always had a smile .I worked with her too,and she did definitely care about her residents. My thoughts and prayers are with Ruth and the family. Rest in peace sweet Ellen.

— Shay Hirdes

Ellen wasn't just my aunt. She was a friend, my support, my confidence booster, my caregiver and one of my second mothers. I'm devastated by her loss and words can't describe what I feel, but I appreciate everything she's sacrificed for me and the entire family. She's done so much for everyone and I'm glad God gave her a peaceful departure and she can finally rest. Thank you for everything, El. I'll see you soon. I love you lots.

— Kame Muhwanga

Sympathy to your family. Ellen was an amazing care giver for my mom at Cambridge. I always felt a peace knowing Ellen was taking care of her. So blessed to have been able to know her.

— Aimee Richards

Praying that God will comfort you as we remember Ellen who was so loved and will be missed by everyone. Aunt Ruth & Uncle Warren

— Ruth Pruiksma

Ellen was a wonderful care giver for my mother at Cambridge. She had such a caring and compassionate heart. Thank you, Ellen, for your 34 years plus of service to the elderly. You will be greatly rewarded in heaven. Sympathies to the Cambridge staff and to the family., ❤️

— Becky Walters

Ellen, working with you were the best 4 years of my career. Life isn't fair taking you too soon. God must have had a good reason for needing you. I promise I will pray for God to mend all the broken hearts of the people left behind that loved you more than life itself. You were amazing here on earth and will for sure shine bright in heaven. I will miss you deeply. Love Deb Shinevare

— Deb Shinevare

So sorry for your loss. We met her when my mother in law was a resident at Cambridge Manor. She was such a nice person and so dedicated to her residents. we appreciate her wonderful care. May she rest in peace.

— Deborah Akkerman

I am so sorry to hear about Ellen she was amazing Co Worker a great friend I learn so much from her she will be a miss my prayers to the family.

— Luz

My deepest sympathies to the Stelpstra Family. Ellen was a wonderful coworker for 29 years and always made the Residents her priority . Im sorry i cannot be there to celebrate her life with you and the “ manor “ Family as Im out of town but my heart will be with you all and praying for Gods peace and comfort for you all . Till We meet again Ellen in Heaven .

— Ruth Flokstra

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