Grayce Kooistra

January 23, 1926 ~
May 23, 2021

Grayce (Duthler) Kooistra, age 95, of Grand Rapids, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, May 23, 2021. She was preceded in death by her brothers and sisters; and son-in-law, Gary Rypma. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Sally Rypma, Scott and Sue Kooistra; grandchildren, Josh and Connie Kooistra, Jason and Heidi Kooistra, Jared and Betsy Kooistra, Jessica and Joel Petersen, Ryan Rypma, Roman and Joy Rypma, Holly and Mark Wright, Heather and Isaac Kennedy; great-grandchildren, Devon, Kellen, and Evelyn Kennedy, Madalyn Rypma, Xavier and Sienna Wright, Nils and Jorn Rypma, Benjamin, Samuel, and Luke Kooistra, Christian, Caleb, and Clara Kooistra, Charlie, Liza, and Miller Kooistra, Noah and Maxwell Petersen. Grayce was a member of Grand Rapids First for over 40 years. She had a love for people and let her light shine. She put a smile on the face of everyone she met. She will be missed by family and friends. A private graveside service will be held. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Sunset Legacy Foundation.

Leave Your Tribute Message

December 22, 2021

So very sorry to hear of Grayce's passing. She was a very special person to me and my family. After a move to Georgia and then Florida I'm sorry to say I failed to keep in touch but made it a point to call her at Christmas and on her birthday. I was told she passed when I called to wish her a Merry Christmas. She was an inspiration to me. Mike Brooks, Chipley, FL

- Mike Brooks

June 04, 2021

Dear Scott, Sue and Sally Way back in 1965 Grayce was my mentor. She and Judy Van Deusen worked in the office at GRCHS. they took me under their wings and made my senior year so much better. Later on when ever i sawy this white haired smiling lady headed my way it was Grayce. Heaven is a better place because of her. Lynne Holtvluwer Harpst

- Lynne Holtvluwer Harpst

June 03, 2021

Dear Scott& Sue and family: We were saddened to hear of the passing of your dear mom! I will always remember the spunky and fun lady she was! She will be very missed! God’s blessing upon all of you! Praying for you all! Marilyn & Dick Bosscher

- Marilyn Bosscher

June 03, 2021

Sally, Scott, and family. So sorry to hear about the passing of your mom and grandmother. She was a beautiful woman who had a ready smile and knew how to make you feel special. Many years ago if you were visiting with ERP or JP in the office at GRC, you knew you had a friend and ally in her. I’m sure she will be missed by many. Our prayers are with you and your families.

- David VerMerris

June 01, 2021

So sorry Kooistra family to hear of Grayce's passing. She was always so kind and supporting to me. Sincere sympathy and prayers for you all. Elizabeth (Scholz) Jennings

- Elizabeth Jennings

May 31, 2021

My mom, June Holtvluwer and Gracye were school girl friends. Their friendship continued until June's passing. I can still remember Gracye calling mom and inviting her for coffee or dinner. Always a smile and very outgoing personality. White hair and white glasses - you could always see and hear Gracye! Condolences Scott and family.

- Jan (Holtvluwer) Lehman

May 30, 2021

Dear Kooistra family Grayce was a part of my life as long as I can remember She was a good friend to everyone in my family especially my mom . When we talked it was like we would pick up right where we left off She is loved and a special friend to many Jim Israels

- Jim Israels

May 30, 2021

I had many chats with Grayce over the 8 years that we connected.. a VERY Delightful... Inspirational lady !!! RIP Precious Child of God !!!!!

- Bev Helder

May 25, 2021

We enjoyed Grace as a co-worker and she made our lives better with her wit and fun personality. Rest in Peace.

- Kathy Tomasik

May 25, 2021

I worked with Grayce at GM! She was a delight to everyone. She always had a smile and positive attitude!!! She could tell hilarious stories and coffee hours were always more fun when she was there! Rest In Peace Gracie!!!

- Judy Fetterhoff

May 24, 2021

I went to school with her granddaughter Jessica and always new Grayce as Grandma Grayce. She always treated me so kind and always hugged and kissed me when she saw me. Later on in life, for the past 16 years I have attended GR First and she always brightened my day when I saw her at church. She will be missed as she was dearly loved.

- Laura Rivera