Pearl Mae Potter Tap

June 12, 1935 ~
July 29, 2021

On July 29, 2021, Pearl Mae (Potter) Tap, 86, entered the gates of heaven and is now safe in the arms of Jesus. Pearl was born on June 12, 1935, to Harold and Hilda (DeJong) Potter and grew up in Byron Center, Michigan. She attended Byron Center Christian School and Grand Rapids Christian High School, graduating in 1952. She became an accomplished musician, playing the piano, organ and singing in choirs and vocal groups. She began playing the organ and piano for churches at age 16 and continued to use these gifts for over 60 years. She was a member of a vocal group “The Melody Six”, singing for church services and musical programs in long term care facilities. Pearl was a highly regarded piano teacher and taught for over 60 years. Pearl was a best friend to many, sustaining relationships from early childhood. She had a strong faith in God and lived a life of service to others, offering help and support to anyone who needed it. She was a “professional volunteer” serving weekly at both Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital and Potter’s House Christian School for over 30 years. Pearl married Arvin Tap, who survives her, on June 24, 1955. She was a loving mother to four children, Bruce and Brenda Tap, Beth and Timothy Huizinga, Brian and Diana Tap and Brent Tap and Laska Nygaard. She was blessed with 7 grandchildren and was a special “Gigi” to 8 great grandchildren, Megan and Ross Mulder (Bennett, Faye, and Van), Derek and Rachael Huizinga, Bethany and Clarissa Tap-Howell (Alexander, Gregory, William, Nicolas), Kathleen Tap Munson and Spencer Munson (Hayden), Nathaniel Tap, Henry Nygaard-Tap and Lucia Nygaard-Tap. Also surviving are her siblings, Gordon and Doreen Potter, Clare and Gwen Potter and Dawn and Roger Cornell, and many nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank Kristy Leslie and the entire staff of Faith Hospice at Trillium Woods for the loving care Pearl received at the end of her life. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Potter’s House Christian School or 70 x 7 Life Recovery. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Fellowship Christian Reformed Church, 4375 Ivanrest Ave. SW, Grandville, with Rev. Robert Uken officiating. The burial will take place at Grandville Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday, August 3 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW.

Leave Your Tribute Message

August 04, 2021

I have truly been blessed to know Pearl. As my daughter Jenna mentioned above, Pearl taught my three children piano lessons for many years with the utmost patience, kindness, good humor, and expertise. I admired and appreciated her very much; she was an example and an inspiration to me personally and as a Christian. Praying for your family during this difficult time.

- Brenda Busscher

August 04, 2021

I'm sorry for your loss. Mrs.Tap was my piano teacher for 10 years! Even though she was officially retired as a teacher, she kept on with me after she taught my siblings. She was a very dedicated teacher; besides regular music she made sure I knew my theory and even handwrote ear training for me every week. All that theory training sure came in handy when I had to take theory tests for choir at school. She was very giving and thoughtful. Every birthday and holiday, I received a card and small gift or candy, and when she went on trips out of the country I got coins and unique curios for my collections. I've still got the music box she gave me that plays 'What a Wonderful World' sitting on my dresser. My prayers and sympathies to Mr. Tap and the rest of the family.

- Jenna Busscher

August 02, 2021

We are deeply saddened to hear of Aunt Pearl's passing, but also know that she is now comfortable and secure in the arms of God. Aunt Pearl was a wonderful and compassionate person. We, and no doubt countless others, will fondly remember the time spent with her.

- Eric Potter and Amanda Van Keuren

August 02, 2021

I'm so sorry for your loss. Precious Pearl. She was a treasure! Faithful, interesting, inspiring. She volunteered in The Potter's House library since it's inception, many, many years. I always loved spending time with her, and I'm so thankful I had the blessing of knowing her.

- Nancy Brusseau

August 02, 2021

Uncle Arv and family, Michelle and I wish to convey our heartfelt sympathy to you. Aunt Pearl was a wonderful example of Christ's love. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. We know that we can be comforted knowing that she is 'watching' over is in Heaven. Love always - Todd and Michelle Potter

- Todd Harold Potter

August 01, 2021

We extend our sincere condolences to "Mr. Tap" and the entire Tap family. We were blessed to be sponsored by Mr. and Mrs Tap to come to U.S as immigrants in 1982. We will not forget her generosity in guiding us during the early days after our arrival. Mr. and Mrs Tap were in Kent county airport welcoming us to our new home in the U.S. Mrs. Tap spent a great deal of time with us as she drove us to register for several refugees services and shopping for necessities. We pray that her loving memories will sustain you during this hard times.

- Habte Dafa and Alganesh Abraham

August 01, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this time. I will never forget “Mrs Tap” for all her encouragement And hours of practice during my time of the “Solo And Ensemble years.” She truly had a gift and lots of patience! An acoustic guitar and accordion has taken the place of the trumpet, although the trumpet i used back in the day is still in my possession:)

- David TenCate