Joann Gelder

Joann (Ver Beek) Gelder, age 69, of Hudsonville, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 31, 2020, and was called home to be with her Lord and Savior after a courageous battle with cancer. She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Gerry Gelder; and her sister, Sharon Ter Horst. Joann was a loving mother and grandmother who treasured the time spent with her family. She was a lifelong educator, teaching at Hudsonville Christian, Borculo Christian, and retired from Beaverdam Christian. Joann served her Lord with her time and talents in many ways both at her church and in her community. She enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping with her family up at Silver Lake. Above all, her love for Jesus and legacy of faith will be remembered by all who knew her. She will be lovingly remembered by her children and grandchildren, Greg and Heidi Gelder (Lacey, Steve, Gavin, Chase, Levi), Doug and Rachelle Gelder (Jessica, Kelsey, Morgan), Jen and Brad Van Dragt (Ja’miah); brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Mike Ter Horst, Al and Jan Gelder, Molly and Don Wyenberg; several loving aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 4, 2020, at 11 a.m. at Georgetown Christian Reformed Church, 6475 40th Ave., Hudsonville, with Rev. Marc Nelesen officiating.  The burial will take place at Blendon Township Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday, September 3, from 2-4 and 5-8 p.m. outside the church in the tent. Memorial contributions may be made to the Unity Christian High School Education Foundation, Georgetown Christian Reformed Church Missions Fund or to an organization of one’s choice.