Emilie Joan McClain

Emilie Joan McClain, age 82, of Kentwood, passed away on Tuesday, February 27, 2018, and now sleeps to await the return of Christ. She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Howard; daughter, Cheryl Miedema; son, David McClain; grandson, Chandler McClain; her parents, Gerrit and Genevieve Slagter; and sister, Linda Whittemore.  Emilie is survived by children, Diane (Brian) Berry, Dale (Michele) McClain, and Timothy (Margaret) McClain; son-in-law, Patrick Miedema; daughter-in-law, Ellen McClain; 14 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; sister, Shirley (Bill) Stebelton, and brothers-in-law, Kenneth McClain and Roger (Janet) McClain. Emilie’s faith in Christ and love of her family were the foundations of her life that were reflected in her active participation in her church, her nurturing of her children and grandchildren, and the joy and laughter she spread to all with whom she had contact. Her vibrant personality was evident in her days square dancing with Howard, as well as the many days camping with family and friends. Funeral services for Emilie will be held 11 am Friday, March 2, 2018 at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Kentwood) 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, with Pastor Jeffery Ransom of Pennellwood Church of God officiating. Interment Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday from 10 to 11 am prior to the service at the funeral home.  The family requests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.