Obituary

Remembering Mary Krikke

Mary Ellen Krikke, age 84, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who always put others before herself. Mary had a passion for the outdoors, whether tending to her beautiful flower garden, caring for her yard, or simply enjoying nature. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing on a tennis league. Easygoing and kind, she had a way of getting along with everyone she met. Her greatest joy was her family—she cherished every moment with her grandchildren. Mary was a wonderful cook, an avid reader, and she especially loved camping trips with her loved ones, creating memories that will be treasured forever. She was preceded in death by her parents, Marie and Dewey VanderSloot; and her brother, Duane and Joyce VanderSloot. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Michelle and Ed Mitchell, Shayne and Scott Fifer; grandchildren, Shelby and Nate Golds, Carl and Bree Mitchell, Cody Fifer, Evan and MaKenzie Fifer, and Emily and Michael Vander Veen; great-grandchildren, Atlas, Harlan, and Warren; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 24, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Pastor Dennis Gilbert officiating. The burial will take place at Washington Park Memorial Gardens. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Thursday from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home prior to the service. 

Service Information

Visitation and Funeral Details

Funeral Services

Thursday, July 24 · 11:00am

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Mary was a resident at ECIL where I worked. I am so glad I got to know her and I enjoyed seeing her and talking to her on my work days. My Sympathy to her family.

— Lisa DeMaat

I work at Edison Christian where Mary was a resident. I enjoyed talking with her and her sense of humor. She will be missed.

— Beth Reynolds

Mary and I were neighbors for many years and became close friends. We played tennis together and just “hung out”. RIP Mary!

— Kay Jaarsma

Mary and I became sisters in law 59 years ago. Neither one of us had our own sisters, so we became that to each other. I'll treasure our laughs and memories forever. My sympathy goes out to her daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Love to you all.

— Ellen Boothe

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Honor Mary with a floral arrangement delivered through Love Knots Floral.

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Floral arrangements provided by Love Knots Floral.