Donna Sterk

On Sunday, September 14, 2025, Donna Louise (DeWent) Sterk, heard the call of Jesus her Lord, Savior, and Friends to pass from life to Life. There she was welcomed into the loving arms of God and met by her husband and best friend, Sam, who preceded her to Life in 1989. She is now remade, set free from earthly concerns, and is rejoicing in that glorious freedom with Christ and those she loved who have been waiting for her.

Donna was born on September 9, 1928, in Wyoming, Michigan to John and Dora DeWent. She grew up on the West side of Grand Rapids and Jenison. After graduating from Hudsonville High School, she worked as an X-ray technician in Grand Rapids. In 1947, she caught Sam Sterk’s eye and as the saying goes “the rest is history”. Marrying in 1948, together they raised their four children: Sharon (Rol) Hoezee, Sue (Randy) Vis, Sam (Lori) Sterk, and Steven (Sheli) Sterk. 

A true joy for Donna has been her nine grandchildren: Tara (Todd) Hoezee DeRoo, Jon (Heather) Hoezee, Ben (Sarah) Hoezee, Becky (Mike) Wittingen Spriensma, Jeni (Brian) Wittingen VanEyk, Tom (Michelle) Wittingen, Ryan Sterk, Rachel Sterk, and Rob Sterk. She delighted in spending time and making memories with her 17 great-grandchildren: Seth and Lauren DeRoo, Tessa and Bree Hoezee, Aubrey, Claire, and Kyle Hoezee, Brent (Alexis), and Lance Spriensma, Anna, Jack, and Ashley VanEyk, Easton, Alyssa, and Caleb Wittingen, Cameron, and Jackson Sterk.

She leaves a marvelous legacy of courage, strength, and faith to her children, grandchildren, and greats. Her life of being a faithful prayer warrior has been a blessing to her family. She was always interested in knowing what was going on in our lives so she could pray. And her Sunday beef roast dinners were indescribably delicious!

Donna was preceded in death by her sister, Joyce Hoezee. She is survived by her sister, Loretta Huberts; brothers-in-law, Dellvan Hoezee, Ken Sterk, Jim Schippers; sisters-in-law, Reet Sterk, Betty Sterk; and many nieces and nephews. 

Visitation is Friday, September 19, 2025, from 5-8 pm at MKD Funeral Home (Grandville), 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. A private family graveside will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice or Sunset Manor Benevolence Fund.