Marian VanTongeren

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A very special lady died on Friday, September 10. Marian loved life, loved people, and had a caring and welcoming presence about her. She had an ability to create a sense of comfort and community wherever she was. Until her last days she was always thinking of others; her love was unconditional and her sense of humor never in short supply. She was a friend to all. A treasured place in her heart belonged to her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and anyone in need. As her children we suspect she was the founder of tough love; never allowing blame and often simply responding to our woes with “it must be the weather”. She taught us resilience in her own, quiet way. Honored to call her mother and missing her so terribly much already are her five children: Tom (Amy) VanTongeren, John (Beth) VanTongeren, Jane (Duane) Prins, Beth (Brett) Snoeyink, Lynn (John) Groothuis. She had 19 grandchildren, three of whom were born deceased, and 17 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband of 66 years, Warren, as well as her three siblings, Bob and Norm Dice and Evelyn Eldersveld. She truly lived a life, even when things were not easy, that reflected God’s will on earth: To love Him and to love others. We are very grateful for that and thankful to all who touched her life with love and care. A private family graveside service will be held rain or shine. She always taught us to “bring our own weather to the picnic”. Today’s forecast for you, mom…exceptionally clear skies.

“She is clothed in strength and dignity, she can laugh at the days to come”

Proverbs 31:25