Nellie Christine Maynard

Nellie Christine Maynard, aged 93 of Caledonia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 25, 2017. Nell was a loving, spirited person who will be sadly missed by family and friends. Her life was a story of so many of the “Greatest Generation” that lived through challenges and persevered in a way that many could only imagine. Nell was born on April 18, 1924 at Twin Lake, MI to Paul Oliver and Violette Delle Bartlett Oliver. Nell’s mother died when she was only 6 years old. As a result, she quickly learned responsibility and tenacity. She graduated from Whitehall High School at the age of 16 and then attended Muskegon Business College. At the beginning of World War II, she lived in Detroit where she worked at a defense plant making airplane parts. Subsequently, Nell worked in other positions helping the war effort. Later she became a skilled secretary at several offices in the Grand Rapids area. Nell married Wilton “Bill” J. Maynard in 1944 in Muskegon, MI. Bill and Nell were married for 59 years. Nell loved challenging herself both mentally and physically throughout her life. Nell loved swimming, card games, dancing, books, gardening, Jeopardy, winters in Arizona, and summers in Michigan. She was a loving and caring mother to her four children, Scott, Janis, Brian, and Linda. Nell belonged to the Order of Eastern Star, Pearl Harbor Survivors Assn., Wayland Garden Club, several book discussion groups, square dancing organizations and church groups. She was a life long Methodist, most recently a member of the Caledonia United Methodist Church. We wish to think of our mother dancing in heaven with our dad. Nell is survived by her children, Scott (Kathy) Maynard, Janis (Jim) Drubert, Brian (Dana) Maynard, Linda O’Ryan; grandchildren, Alexis Drubert, Dawn Kunard, Nicole Klinge, Brett Maynard, Jason Maynard, Della Richards, and Lance Richards. She is also survived by seven great-grandchildren and three sisters-in-law, Marilyn Westley, Betty Maynard, and Jeanne Oliver. Nell was preceded in death by her husband, Wilton “Bill” J. Maynard; her parents; and three brothers, John, Paul and Dell Oliver. Funeral services for Nell will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 am at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 616 E. Main Street, Caledonia with Rev. Jodie Flessner officiating. Inurnment Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family at the funeral home on Tuesday from 9:30-11:00 am prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Caledonia United Methodist Church.

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November 27, 2017

Brian & Dana and family. We are so sorry to hear of Nel’s passing away. We really enjoyed knowing her and will miss her. We will also miss seeing her at church. Sincerely , Al & Sallie Niles

- Al & Sallie Niles

November 27, 2017

My Mom and Dad, Neil & Nish Lux were dear friends with Nellie and Bill for many years but my Mom and Nell were friends dating back even further. They had quite a foursome friendship but Nell and Nish had a special relationship. Having shared experiences from young gals to "older" gals they had a bondage that was important to both. I've heard many stories. A few years ago my Mom asked me if I would take her to Nell's birthday party. I was delighted to do so and it touched my heart to see the loving interaction with the two. Last Easter Nell's son and daughter-in-law brought Nell to my house for a visit. It was again a story telling, loving time. I am so thankful that these lovely, bonded friends had these last special times of sharing - - it meant so much to both of the;m. My Mom also passed 9-21-17 at age 93. Perhaps now there are more hugs and story telling ? To all Nell's loved ones,my sincere condolences. Sharon (Lux) Felcoski

- Sharon (Lux) Felcoski

November 26, 2017

To the family: I'm sorry for your loss, even though, i didn't know your loved one. i would like to share a comforting scripture with you, at Psalms 34:18 Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted, He saves those who are crushed in spirit. for further encouragement i would like to invite you, to our website at JW.ORG

- Williams