Obituary

Remembering Marisa Van Til

Marisa R. Van Til, age 20, was very unexpectedly taken from us on Friday, January 20, 2017. Marisa was the light of our lives, a loving, kind, and caring person who was loved and will be forever missed by her parents, Jeff Van Til and Jennifer (Jocis) Van Til; brothers, Mason Van Til, Christian Van Til, and Romeo Smith; grandparents, Pete and Patricia Van Til, Frank Jocis (Lisa McGuire), Mary and Richard Slawinski; very special uncles and aunts, Chris Van Til (fiancée, Wendy Stowell), Frank Jocis, April (Slawinski) and Darryl Fletcher; great aunts and uncles, cousins, other family members; her craniofacial and Apert families; very special friend, Hannah Vruggink, who was always there for Marisa; and longtime friend, Tanoya Wilson. Marisa loved her family and friends dearly. Marisa was a graduate of Jenison High School, class of 2015. She loved her job at Taco Bell and the people she worked with. She also loved Jesus and is walking with him now and forever. Her smile and laughter will remain with us daily, as well as her favorite quip, “Oh, baloney,” when she disagreed. Her life was a special blessing to our family and our greatest joy. Special thanks to the many wonderful doctors, too many to name, the nurses and other health professionals who have taken care of her and given her such excellent and kind and loving care since her medical journey which began at birth, and especially to Dr. Helen Scott and Dr. Ian Jackson (retired), who formerly headed her craniofacial team at the Ian Jackson Craniofacial and Cleft Palate Clinic, now at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan, and Dr. Kongkrit Chaiyasate, Pediatric Plastic Surgery, who is presently heading the craniofacial team at the Clinic. A funeral service celebrating Marisa’s life will be held on Friday, January 27 at 11 am at Cottonwood Church, 1101 Cypress, Jenison, with Pastor Matt Palsrok officiating. Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday, January 26, from 5-8 pm at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, as well as on Friday for one hour prior to the service at the church.  Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Marisa to Children’s Craniofacial Association.

Guestbook

Tribute Messages

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June 18, 2020 3:22pm

it hurts me so much that she's gone. She always kept a smile on my face. She was such a sweet friend to me and Samantha. I just never thought she would be gone already. I miss her laugh, energetic personality and her friendship. I know we'll always be friends no matter what. I'm praying for her family every day. She was such a great sister and great supporter. R.I.P sweet girl. I miss you so much and it hurts. Thank you Vantil Family for allowing Marisa and I to have a great friendship. Love ya guys.

— carmen hill

October 07, 2017 8:06am

"Oh, rat-a-tat-tat!" -Marisa

— Amber Sole

October 07, 2017 8:05am

Marisa, my sweet best friend, I will always love you.

— Amber Sole

January 27, 2017 11:04am

Van Til Family, I am deeply saddened by your loss. Marisa was always a bright spot in the halls of Jenison High School. Hold on tight to the memories. Marisa was a gift to all of us who knew her.

— Dave Tchozewski

January 27, 2017 9:12am

Uncle Pete and Aunt Pat my heart breaks for you and all others who knew Marisa. Nobody knows the pain you are going through because children should never die before their parents. I never had the opportunity to meet Marisa but, from the notes people have written, Uncle Pete and Aunt Pat you did a terrific job raising Marisa. Now it's Marisa who will look after the two of you, as she is now in heaven perfect and pure. Always remember all the good and keep her close to your heart. Look for the joy it's all around you. Don't dwell on the what's,why's or the anger you have, Marisa and Our Lord would not want that. I say that because as hard as it is for you Uncle Pete and Aunt June, Our Lord has a plan for everything and we certainly don't want to interfere with His plan. We will all understand his plan when he decides it's time. Continue your spiritual walk with Our Lord and he will walk you or carry you through this tragedy. My prayers are with you and everyone who knew such an innocent, caring and loving young lady. Marisa it's time to fly high so very high. You are safe in Our Lord's House. With all our love, Larry and Sandra Bergers-Toomey

— Sandra Bergers-Toomey

January 27, 2017 7:22am

May the family of sweet Marisa find some measure of comfort in knowing that our "enemy, death, is to be brought to nothing." (1 Corinthians 15:26) The time is fast approaching where this ever dreaded enemy will never again be able to take our dear loved ones. What is more, "all those in the memorial tombs will hear his [Jesus] voice and come out." (John 5:28, 29) Marisa now rests, awaiting this wonderful promise, so soon-to-be fulfilled. Please feel free to contact me to learn about the Bible's resurrection hope or visit [url=http://www.jw.org]http://www.jw.org[/url]. I hope you all take care and please accept my sincerest condolences.

— Aries

January 26, 2017 4:27pm

Jennifer and family, I'm so sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter. I know there are no words that will comfort you right now. Please know I will continue to pray that God wraps his loving arms around all of you today and days to come.

— Tammy Morgia Stocking

January 26, 2017 4:21pm

Dear Pat and Pete , praying for all of you that God will give you strength and peace through these days. I'm truly sorry for your loss.

— Brenda Freye

January 26, 2017 1:54am

Pat, Pete, Jeff & Family, Our sincere condolences in the passing of your beloved Marisa. Her joyful spirit, courage and bravery touched so many lives. May you be blessed with God's strength and peace as you celebrate and cherish Marisa's life knowing she is in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. You are in our thoughts and prayers. With love and caring, John, Sharon & Family

— John & Sharon Van Dam

January 25, 2017 4:37pm

Jeff, we are so sorry for you loss. You have been weighing heavy on our hearts as we can't imagine what pain you in. Know that your beautiful daughter is walking with our Lord and she will have no more pain. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family.

— Gary and Debbie DeWitt

January 25, 2017 2:58pm

Marisa, I will always remember your boisterous laughter and beautiful smile. May you rest in peace pretty angel. To your family and friends may the care and love around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead. Hugs to all of you

— Darcy Grosjean

January 25, 2017 1:14pm

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with ALL the family.

— Kim Page

January 25, 2017 12:51pm

My Thoughts and Prayers are with you at this difficult time.

— Karen Schramm

January 25, 2017 12:13pm

We are still in shock at the news that Marisa has left this world. We met because we also have a daughter with Apert Syndrome. The girls hung out Myrtle Beach. Lots of love and hugs for the family.

— Tait Family

January 25, 2017 10:18am

Marisa was a ray of sunshine and we all looked forward to seeing her at Jenison Young Life. She brought joy to everyone she was with. Please know you all are in my thoughts and in my prayers.

— Clare Tiemann

January 25, 2017 9:34am

We are so sorry for your loss and prayer that God will give you some peace knowing that she will be with her great grand parents in heaven in your dreams just remember her dancing and know that she is free and she will dwell in the house of the Lord. Rich and Carol Page

— Richard -Carol Page

January 25, 2017 8:01am

So very sorry for your loss of someone so young. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.

— Vint and Lois Hubbard

January 25, 2017 7:56am

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you during this difficult time. My God comfort you and give you strength. I am so sorry for your loss.

— Jill Birdsall

January 25, 2017 6:55am

Rest sweet beauty in the arms of our savior. We loved you then, now and forever! Thank you for blessing our lives with your joy! Tori and Joyce

— Joyce Teders and Victorious Gravelle

January 25, 2017 6:52am

News of this tragedy has made me sick. She was obviously a sweet girl and a gift to all of the lives she touch. May the future bring justice and peace for her loved ones.

— Tia

January 25, 2017 6:50am

All I have to do is think of Marisa and I chuckle. What a little character! I loved that little honey. Mason was an awesome brother. Pat and Pete such wonderful grandparents, Jeff a caring dad. I remember all of our parent/teacher conferences well, and grandma and grandpa always involved in school. Marisa was always dressed so cute and so well loved. I am so thankful to God that our paths crossed! I am a better person because of her. What spice she will add to heaven!! xoxoxo

— Shelly Wilson

January 25, 2017 5:57am

God has blessed Marisa in a big way. That is saving her from adulthood. He took her before she had to struggle with real life problems so that she would never be unhappy walking on Earth and that is true because she lived everyday as if it were her last. Always smiling, laughing, cracking jokes, she was filled with adventure and NEVER had a negative thought crossed her mind, she knew of no evil. The world needs more people like my sister. Nobody compares to the perfection or beauty of her and she was tougher than I will ever be. I love you Marisa but you are safe from any evils now and God will protect you. Rest in Peace baby sister.

— Mason Vantil

January 25, 2017 5:25am

Jennifer I am saddened and heartbroken for you all. I cannot imagine the pain and sorrow you are feeling. Marisa grew into an exceptional young lady and can be an inspiration for many. My prayers are with you. Aunt Sue

— Aunt Sue Putnam

January 25, 2017 4:43am

We spent many years watching sports together with Marisa! I could always count on her to laugh at my crazy dancing.....I think she was the only one who appreciated my "skills!" My heart hurts along with her family & friends, and I have been thinking and praying for all of you. May you find the comfort that only comes from Jesus.

— Melanie Ippel

January 25, 2017 4:41am

Pat and family, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Know that Marisa is now watching over you and will always be in your heart. Hugs to you all-

— Liz Shearer

January 25, 2017 4:06am

I am so sorry for your loss. Marisa was a lovely young woman with a beautiful smile. She will be missed at the beach and picnics.

— Sherry Kraus- Kieran's mom

January 25, 2017 3:03am

I'm sending love & prayers to Marisa's family. She was always such a sweetheart and a great friend. I loved seeing her sweet smile and the videos of her singing. She is the most beautiful angel. Rest in peace precious girl.

— Julie Lee

January 25, 2017 2:47am

We are so very sorry for your loss. Marisa will be missed. Her beautiful sense of humor and fun loving spirit is what we hope to hold on to in her memory.

— Pamerleau family

January 24, 2017 10:02pm

I didn't know Marisa, but my daughter Kassie worked with her at Taco Bell and she always talked about how much she loved her. She would come home and share her funny or sweet Marisa stories. I am very sorry for your loss.

— Kim Yeomans

January 24, 2017 8:51pm

Words really can't describe how I feel about this. Marisa was the most precious, loving, beautiful, best sister anyone could ask for i think I speak for myself and my brothers on that. She was so mothering to all of us growing up. Nothing could top the love Marisa showed to me. Growing up she was my bestfriend, we went everywhere together and went through everything. Whenever I needed someone to talk to or just make me smile or laugh I knew Marisa was right there in the next room over. There's too much to put all my feelings on here. Marisa will be dearly missed and remembered only for her positivity and living life to the fullest. With love

— Mason Vantil

January 24, 2017 7:23pm

Marisa was definitely a light in my life and my heart aches for everyone mourning. I hope I can make it to give my respects, but if not, always know I love you.

— Victoria Varkales

January 24, 2017 6:05pm

My deepest sympathies to your family during a most difficult time. May God comfort all of you.

— Leslie Rydahl

January 24, 2017 6:04pm

My heart is breaking. Jenn & Jeff, I can't fathom your pain & to her brothers, I am so sorry you have lost your sister. From the moment Marisa was born, I called her "Grama's Precious Angel" & enjoyed so many happy times with her...now she is God's Precious Angel. You have my love, always ❤

— Cindy Jocis

January 24, 2017 4:48pm

So very sorry you were taken away. I am a mom of a beautiful Apert Girl and I feel the lost not only as a mom but as an Apert mom. Forever fly angel.

— Dawn Jennerjohn

January 24, 2017 3:49pm

Sending our deepest sympathies & condolences during this time of great grief and loss.Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. Keeping you in our thoughts & prayers

— Tom & Kim DePuit

January 24, 2017 3:22pm

Jeff, I'm so sorry for your loss. I'll be praying for you and your family in the days to come. This kind of loss never leaves your heart. Take care of your family and yourself.❤ Stefanie

— Stefanie Nyenhuis-Van Howe

January 24, 2017 3:20pm

I am so very sorry for your loss of such a beautiful young lady. She walked the halls with a smile on her face at school, which is how I knew her. She left so many people with a smile on their face, and that will leave them with a missing spot in their hearts. Prayers with you, The Cusick family

— Colleen Cusick

January 24, 2017 3:19pm

R.I.P Marisa you were a special friend and we always enjoy seeing you at the beach from the years we available attend. Pete and Patti yall were special grandparents to her. Stay in touch the Sapp family

— The Sapp boys

January 24, 2017 3:19pm

My heart is breaking for you all, this is something no one should have to go through. Marisa was such a sweet girl and I am so glad I got to know her and see her grow throughout the years. I hadn't seen Marisa in a few years but still thought about her often because people like her and her family never leave your mind. Love you Jen, Mason and Ro and my thoughts and prayers are with you

— Lesa

January 24, 2017 2:56pm

We are sending loving thoughts and prayers for the family in your time of grief and great loss.

— Peg Zandbergen and family

January 24, 2017 2:14pm

Words could never express the pain we feel in our hearts at a time like this. Marisa was always a happy young lady that loved her friends and family and always was caring for everyone. God has gained a beautiful Angel with some big wings. With our deepest sympathy , we wish you strength during this difficult time. Love and miss you <3 The Trudell family

— The Trudell family

January 24, 2017 1:53pm

May God Bless her soul and give her family and friends strength in knowing she is with him during this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss.

— Ed Mohrbacher

January 24, 2017 12:03pm

Marisa will be fondly remembered by myself and the Jenison Young Life team. She always came in early with a smile and ready to dance. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

— Carrie Rodgers

January 24, 2017 11:37am

Im so sorry my thoughts and prayers go to you all in this time sorry i did not make it there i am in heart i love you all hugs from ne to you all and rip you sweet angel

— Dena kind

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