Sheryl Coger

Sheryl Ann (nee VanLoon) Coger, age 72, of Grand Rapids, passed away with family by her side on Sunday, August 27, 2023, after a hard-fought battle against glioblastoma. Sheryl was preceded in death by her father, John VanLoon. She will be dearly missed by her devoted husband of 42 years, Michael Coger; her adoring mother, Rosemary VanLoon; siblings-in-law, Cheryl and Marvin DeVries; nieces and nephews, Stacia DeVries, Janelle and David Tahtinen, Meredith and Kirk Manchip; great-nephew Reid Manchip, and many cousins.

Sheryl was an advocate for creativity and sustaining a strong sense of self. She was passionate about gardening and crafting; she gave back to the world with all her beautiful creations. Sheryl was a fervent fan of the Detroit Tigers and a constant cheerleader for the Hoops and Rampage back in the day. Her favorite player was her husband, Mike, and Sheryl’s rallying whistle at his vintage baseball and softball games will be remembered by many friends with fondness. Sheryl cherished touring the world with Mike and was able to experience more than a dozen countries. Mike, Sheryl, and Rose were avid geocachers, making multitudes of memories and friendships on their continent-wide hunts. When she wasn’t out adventuring, Sheryl favored a good beer and great conversation at a unique brewery. Sheryl always had a knack for finding the hidden gems in life.

We will all miss the passion she shared, along with the love she expressed in such a myriad of endearing ways. Sheryl imprinted on our hearts and this earth, leaving a beauty behind to last forever.

Mike and Rose would like to personally express deep gratitude and appreciation to Sheryl’s cousin, Ross Rockwell, for his generous help and priceless support during the past months of struggle.

For those wishing to make a donation in Sheryl’s memory, please consider the Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Sheryl’s Life on November 11, 2023, at the Eastern Avenue Hall, 506 Eastern Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 at 3:00 p.m. Food will be provided.