George Berends

George Irwin Berends, age 82, of Grand Rapids, went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, July 19, 2016.  George served as a missionary in Brazil.  After returning to the U.S., he helped establish NorthPointe Christian Schools. He also worked at Custom Music.  In his retirement, he ministered with New Creations Prison Ministries. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife and best friend, Joy; children and grandchildren, Steve and Kathie Berends (Tricia, Joshua, Seth), Sharon and Brad Possehl (Andrew, Daniel, Kate, David), Sheryl and Tim Kuzimicz (Laura, Jenna); brother, Eugene and Eileen Berends; sisters-in-law, Joan Berends, and Gloria Meyer; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Friday, July 22, at 11 AM in the Prayer Chapel at Grand Rapids First Church, 2100 44th St SW, Wyoming.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday, July 21, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Drive SW.  Memorial contributions may be made to NorthPointe Christian Schools.