Marian “Mary” Rauwerda

Marian “Mary” Rauwerda, age 97, of Grand Rapids, was called to her heavenly home on Wednesday, January 22, 2020.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Gerald, Sr., daughter, Sharon Longcore, grandson, Jon Rauwerda, her parents, and all her siblings.  Mary will be lovingly remembered by her children, Gerald, Jr., (Josephine) Rauwerda, Thomas (Ruth Ann) Rauwerda, Michelle (Curtis) Besmer; son-in-law, Fred Longcore; 13 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.  Mary was a loving, caring wife, mother and grandmother.  She was deeply involved in her Catholic faith.  She loved going to Holland State Park on Sundays in the summer,  shopping, and going out to eat.  Mary was very gregarious and outgoing and loved to tease the kids, grandkids and many others.  She enjoyed expressing her love by giving hugs.  Mary and Gerald enjoyed dancing and camping with the family.  Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2020, 11:00 am at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 101 Hall St. SE, Grand Rapids, with Fr. Ted Kozlowski presiding.  Interment Resurrection Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, and from 10-11 am on Saturday prior to the service at church.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Spectrum Health Hospice.