http://www.gordenfuneral.com/, http://Chappellfuneralhome.com/

Gorden Funeral Residence & Chappell Funeral Home, Allegan, MI (2025)

11/05/2025

On October 23, we held our annual Pig Roast at the Gorden Funeral Residence in support of our community’s first responders. The event was a great success, serving up tons of tasty BBQ with all the fixings, along with plenty of good company and conversation – all in support and appreciation of our local police, firefighters, and EMTs.

We hope everyone got their fill, and look forward to seeing you all again next year.

11/05/2025

Wendy Barbara Byers
March 17, 1951 - November 4, 2025

With a woman like Wendy, one has to be very careful in the description of such a soul. If you only knew the where bouts she came then and only then would you understand her way. Wee Wendy Weal was born on a St. Patty’s Day in 1951 to an Irish- Scots hot box of a woman, (Willa) Fronville-Galbreath and a Jewish man (Grenarde) Weal, whose love for fishing, honest work, and side hustling at the horse track provided them with the key ingredients that made up their blended family in Kalamazoo. In her teen years, she fell in love as most girls from her era with the Beatles and her honesty could make anyone blush as she shared her crushes on Paul McCartney, and Johnny Crawford. After Highschool she went to a Beauty School, where the only hairstyles that seemed to be retained were bowl cuts and perms, that plagued her two sons until they learned to either cut their own hair or pay for a stylist on their own.
Her adult years were full of great adventures and relationships. One evening at a youth group coffeehouse she was introduced to Ron Ewing of Otsego Michigan, that resulted in her first marriage that produced two boys, Ronnie and Randy. Second, was the marriage to Richard Crawford. Who loved fast cars, Salem Light 100’s, and Country Music. But most of all, Loved Wendy! Her flaws to him, were like a magnet to his heart and found someone to have a life with. That however was cut short due to Richard’s health. He passed at 43. Then came Donnie Donald “The Donster” of Ohio. He was a handful! But the two of them became Gramma and Grandpa Flash, (Wendy had a love for shooting photos) to Ronnie and Randy’s daughters Cora, and Monique. Don came with more kids, grand kids, and great grand kids. Wendy finished her employment years at the PERRIGO Co. In Allegan, where she retired to become a full time care giver for Don, as he slowly declined to Dementia.

A woman of Faith, Love, and Devoted Hope in Jesus Christ is what drove her to be a reflection and a servant for many years at the Allegan Assembly of God Church where she taught Sunday School and Children’s Church. Her heart was widened to take in those who needed a rest from hard times, or addiction. She wasn’t just known as Sister, Mom, Aunt, Cousin, or Grandma to her immediate family but to everyone she met, even those of the nursing staff at the Hospital she sadly passed away at on November 4th 2025.

Wendy was reunited with family, lovers, pets and friends and is survived by her cherished cat “Pootie”; Her two sons, their wives and children; and many nieces, nephews, steps, fosters, adopted, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

“Momma, you did good!”

10/31/2025

Bryan Paul Taylor
November 26, 1938 - October 29, 2025 (Age 86)

Bryan Taylor passed away peacefully at home on October 29th, 2025. Bryan was born in Chicago on November 26th, 1938, to his parents Elaine (Drabik) and Wilson Taylor. After graduating high school from St. Rita's, he enrolled in the U.S. Marine Corps which he credits with developing many of his best traits. After being honorably discharged, he made use of the G.I. Bill and earned his B.A. from Roosevelt University and was the first member of his family to earn a college degree. He taught English in the Chicago Public Schools where he met Carol (Sanders) whom he married in 1974. Shortly thereafter, they moved to Allegan to begin a life on the farm.

For years, Bryan made his own wine from California grapes and became excited about the prospects of raising French and New York hybrid grapes in Michigan. He and Carol launched Taylor Ridge Vineyards and began a business specializing in providing juice to home winemakers, a service they provided to their customers and local wineries for 50 years. They also raised pigs, goats, and cattle while harvesting the corn and hay for their feed.

Bryan was a true renaissance man! In addition to teaching and farming, he also worked as a human resources officer at a large hospital, a tour guide in the Rocky Mountains, a deckhand on the Ore Boats of Lake Superior, and a trim carpenter. He built the family home, wrote poetry, served as a lay reader at the Episcopal Church, and studied history and the German language. He loved farm auctions, the county fair, meals at Minnie's, and white wine. Hiking was a treasured hobby, particularly in Arizona where he and Carol spent several winters, and he descended the Grand Canyon numerous times (including at the age of 72 with a 30lb backpack). But, Bryan was never happier than when he was fishing with friends and family. No trip was "vacation" without a rod, dry flies, some worms, or a Rapala. His favorite spots included Emerson Lake, Isle Royale, and the Wind River mountains of Wyoming. Ultimately, he dug and stocked his own fishpond where he spent his final years hauling in oversized bluegills, bass, and catfish.

Bryan is survived by his wife of 52 years, Carol; his son John; his daughter-in-law Rachael; two grandsons, Helly and Matteo; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father Wilson and mother Elaine as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Bryan's memorial service will be held on November 6th at Gorden Funeral Home (528 Trowbridge Street in Allegan, MI) at 11:00 a.m. with visitation to begin at 10:00 a.m. Graveside Service will follow with military honors at Lindsley Cemetery in Chesire Township.

10/31/2025

Herbet "Herb" Leon Johnson
May 14, 1936 - October 30, 2025 (89)

Herbert “Herb” Johnson passed on Thursday, October 30, 2025.
Herb was born to his late parents Verlin and Eva (Burke) Johnson on May 14, 1936, in Allegan, MI.

After graduating from Bloomingdale High School, Herb earned a bachelor’s degree from Ferris State University, and then a master’s degree in education from Michigan State University.

Herb then began teaching at Martin High School and remained there until his retirement 33 years later. While at Martin, Herb taught office practices, accounting, typing and was a beloved track and basketball coach. In 1986, he was honored as coach of the year. Herb was later inducted into the Martin High School Hall of Fame. Herb was competitive and loved coaching as much as teaching and guiding his students and players towards successful lives.

Outside of teaching, Herb, with his brothers Ken and Jim, enjoyed playing golf. In 1967, Herb designed a layout for an 18-Hole golf course. The brothers then bought property in Cheshire Township, built and opened the first 9-Holes in 1972, calling it Cheshire Hills Golf Course. A few years later, they added another nine to make 18-Holes. In the early 90’s, a driving range and nine more holes were added creating the present day 27-Hole layout.

Herb was also passionate about Camp Kidwell in Bloomingdale, MI, believing in their mission serving youth while being an active board member, fundraiser, and donor.

Herb was an avid sports fan. He loved watching and attending the Lions, Tigers, Red Wings, and his Spartans. Herb was a kind, driven, and hardworking man who leaves a legacy of generosity in his wake.

He is survived by his brother Kenny (Marcia) Johnson; nieces and nephews Alan (Terri) Johnson, Melissa Johnson, Blythe Cummings, Dean Johnson, Justin Johnson and Beth (Mike) Day; great-niece Tiffany Johnson and special family members Steven, Brianna and Eastyn Johnson.

He is preceded in death by his parents Verlin and Eva and brothers, Jim Johnson and Harry Johnson.

A celebration of life will take place on June 13, 2026, at Cheshire Hills Golf Course. Details to be announced as the date approaches.

10/31/2025

William Dale VanderVelden
May 3, 1937 - October 24, 2025

William Dale VanderVelden, 88, of Holland, MI passed away Friday, October 24, 2025 at Douglas Cove Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Douglas. Born May 3, 1937 in Holland, he was the son of the late William Charles Frederick and Jeannette (Ver Burg) VanderVelden and was the husband of Carol Ann (Greene) VanderVelden. Bill was a 1955 graduate of Holland High School. He served in the United States Army and later retired from Bohn Aluminum and Brass Corporation. Bill was a talented woodworker who made beautiful furniture and other handcrafted items in his spare time. He was a man with many varied interests including coin collecting, John Deere tractors and attending gun shows. Bill taught his children how to shoot guns and pack their own ammunition. He was a very happy-go-lucky person who always had an extremely positive attitude and loved people. Above all else, Bill loved his family. Being surrounded by all his family brought him his greatest joy.

In addition to his wife of thirty-eight years, Bill is survived by his sons, Mathew and David VanderVelden; stepchildren, Lisa (Thomas) Reich, John Gilbert, Greg (Jill) Gilbert, Kenneth (Kristi) Gilbert and Chong Gilbert; and sisters, Marlene Mokma and Elaine Van Wieren. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Irvin Mokma.

The family will receive friends at St. Peter Catholic Church on Thursday, November 13, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM and a Memorial Mass will begin at the church at 11:00 AM. Bill will be laid to rest following in Gibson Cemetery.

10/29/2025

𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫

“Grief is the price we pay for love.” — Queen Elizabeth II

“Death ends a life, not a relationship. The pain of loss never really disappears, it simply changes shape. At first, grief feels unbearable, like a shadow that consumes every bit of light. But over time, you begin to notice that the shadow starts to move behind you rather than in front of you. You start remembering laughter before the tears. Love doesn’t die when a person dies. It lingers, it whispers, it warms. Grief, then, is the final act of love: the echo that says, ‘You mattered.’ Healing comes when you can hold both the sorrow and the gratitude in the same breath.” — Mitch Albom

“Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith. It is the price of love. When we lose
someone dear, the ache reminds us how deeply we were connected. Healing doesn’t mean
forgetting; it means learning to live with love in a new, quieter way.” — Unknown

10/29/2025

𝟒 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐈𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲

Looking for Halloween activities to do this week in and around Allegan County? There’s plenty of fun, scary (and not-so-scary) options still happening this week. Here are four of the best:

𝗛𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹!
Tons of family-friendly activities available, including wagon and barrel train rides, petting zoo, bounce house, woodland obstacle course and zip line, and much more. Everyone wearing a costume gets a prize.

When: Friday October 31
Where: Bumbleberry Acres, 6785 Baseline Rd, South Haven
For more information: https://www.bumbleberryacres.com/event-details-registration/halloween-special

𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐥’𝐬 𝐇𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐲𝐚𝐫𝐝
Love seeing someone who goes all out to decorate their home for Halloween? Here’s one of the very best. Spooky but not gory. Home interior is completely decorated, as well. Come by for pictures.

When: Now through Friday October 31
Where: 1795 River Bend Drive, Allegan
For more information: https://www.facebook.com/groups/290777465557262/posts/1453455822622748/.

𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐦 𝐇𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐳𝐞
The corn maze is a nighttime activity full of “dead ends, twists & turns, confusion, mayhem and to top it off you will be stalked by our devilish team of corn stalkers.” This one’s scary, so teens and adults only.

When: Friday October 31 and Saturday November 1
Where: 4516 24th Street, Dorr
For more information: https://www.newsalemcornmaze.com/.

𝗡𝗼𝘁-𝗦𝗼-𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘆 𝗛𝗮𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝘇𝗲
“Fright-free” fun for kids of all ages featuring a maze full of “twist, turns, and lighthearted surprises.”

When: Friday October 31, Saturday November 1 and Sunday November 2
Where: 439 River Street, Allegan
For more information: https://www.alleganevent.com/alleganevent-news/haunted-maze-weekend.

10/28/2025

Charles Ray Kimber, Sr.
January 9, 1950 - October 26, 2025

Charles Ray Kimber, Sr., 75, of Fennville, MI passed away Sunday, October 26, 2025 at Holland Hospital. Born January 9, 1950 in Holland, he was the son of the late Harley and Margaret (Diepenhorst) Kimber and was the husband of the late Patti Ann Kimber. Charles was a man of very strong faith who loved spending time with his family above all else. He was an avid outdoorsman and especially enjoyed going hunting and fishing.

Charles is survived by his sons, Charlie (Erica) Kimber, Jr. and Robert Kimber; brothers, Herm Kimber and Ervin Kimber; grandchildren, Chase (Katie), Chloe (Alex), Rory, Alisa, Sarah, Mitch, Brittney, Lindsey, Johnny and Jevic; and great-grandchildren, Mason, Wyatt, Addy, Ariana, Hudson, Javi and Lorenzo. Along with his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Harley Kimber, Jr., Patricia Ross and Evelyn Kimber.

A celebration of life will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Hamilton on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM where Charles will be laid to rest beside Patti.

10/27/2025

Arlene Joyce (Kleinbrink) Callender
July 8, 1941 - October 26, 2025

Arlene Joyce (Kleinbrink) Callender, 84, of Allegan and Holland passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at the home of her son, Donald (Mari) Schuitema following a lengthy illness.

Arlene was born July 8, 1941 in Burnips, MI to John and Genevieve (Yonker) Kleinbrink. Arlene retired from Hart and Cooley in 2004.

Arlene is survived by her children, Donald (Mari) Schuitema and Ronald Schuitema; grandchildren, Jodi (Eric) Hassevoort and Donnie (Robyn) Schuitema; great-grandchildren, Corey Hassevoort and Hannah Markowski (Dawson and Lenni), Nicole (Corey) Vandewege, Austin Hassevoort, Oakley Schuitema and Nona Schuitema; and siblings, Ellie Clark, John (Mary) Kleinbrink and Betty (Gary) Truax.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Donald (Virginia) Kleinbrink; sister, Wanda (Tom) Clark; and brother-in-law, Richard (Dick) Clark.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Wings of Hope Hospice.

Per her wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from noon until 2:00 PM at the Allegan Eagles. Memorial donations may be made to Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn Street, Allegan, MI 49010.

10/25/2025

Patrick Bloise, Jr.
September 3, 1937 - October 20, 2025

Patrick Bloise, age 88, of Fennville, passed away peacefully in Holland Michigan. Patrick spent the last 10 years living at Resthaven in Holland. A retired machinist from the City of Chicago, Patrick enjoyed a relaxed life of simple pleasures including tending to and hunting on his Fennville property, reading, and listening to music. He worked locally, after retiring to West Michigan, and chose a life free of television and the drama of politics. Patrick liked to share stories about his time in Chicago, especially his experience maintaining Chicago Police Department vehicles during significant periods in the city's history.

Patrick enjoyed sharing stories of his Chicago days, such as the time he worked several days to repair equipment during a major snowstorm, ensuring officers could respond to emergencies across the city. He also often reflected on how he gained expertise in maintaining the fleet of Chicago Police Department vehicles during the tumultuous 1968 Democratic National Convention, a period that tested his skills and dedication.

Patrick was a highly regarded machinist recognized for his technical expertise and meticulous attention to detail. Officers frequently requested his services for vehicle repairs at O'Hare and other locations away from his shop. He is survived by his brother, Robert Bloise, as well as his nieces and nephews: Rosemary, Suzanne, Leonard Jr., and Thomas. Predeceased by his parents, his sister Collette, and his nephew Robert Jr.

Services will be held at Chappell Funeral Home in Fennville, MI, on October 30, 2025. Public viewing at 10:00 am, service at 11:00 am, and burial after at the Fennville Cemetery.

Those wishing to honor Patrick should simply take a walk in the sunshine and listen to a song from the Big Band Era.

10/24/2025

Brian James Kuperus
March 31, 1971 - October 23, 2025 (Age 54)

It is with broken hearts that we share that our beloved husband, dad, and grandpa, Brian Kuperus, passed away unexpectedly on October 23, 2025. He was 54 years old.

He was born in Zeeland, Michigan on March 31, 1971, to his parents John and Annette. He grew up in Dorr, MI on his parent’s dairy farm and met his wife Cathy when he was in kindergarten at Moline Christian. They started dating 15 years later and were married in 1994, when they purchased their dairy farm in Hopkins, Michigan. They named their farm Blue Moon Dairy knowing that what they would start together could only happen “once in a blue moon”.

Brian was a dreamer and inventor at heart who inspired everyone around him. His passion and drive led him to become a farmland real estate broker, helping other families chase their own dreams. His creativity and determination also led him and his wife to invent a cattle castration band and start their own company, Zip Bandit. The thing he was most proud of was his family, whom he loved deeply.

He approached each and every day with humor, and purpose. His laughter was loud and contagious, his advice steady and wise, and his faith, though quiet, ran deep. One of his more recent quotes was, “Even if you don’t believe in God, God will always believe in you.”

Brian was known for his cheesy jokes that somehow never got old, his sturdy presence that made any problem seem solvable, and his ability to put a smile on anyone's face. Without fail, Brian always found a way to stir the pot. He was a sounding board and advisor for many. He was the person you called if you ever had a problem to solve. Brian was a strong, reliable, and generous man that people leaned on.

Brian is survived by his loving wife, Cathy Kuperus; and his children, Jackie (Jake) Hunt, Isaac (Abby) VandenToorn, Kelsey (Chad) Niemchick, Becky (Dave) Kuperus, and Hannah (Jeremy) Kuperus. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren - Lillian, Brooklynn, Addelyn, Shay, Vivian, Trillium, Rowan, Gideon, and Rosalind - and his beloved fur children, Harry and Walter.

He is preceded in death by his father John, and his brother Larry, and he is survived by his mother Annette, his siblings Kalvin (Anne), Don (Kathy), John (Char), Tammy (Larry), Glenn (Michelle), Nancy (Enoch), as well as many nieces and nephews. Brian will be deeply missed by many more friends and extended family who loved him dearly.

Though our hearts ache, we take comfort in knowing he is at peace.

We love you so much, Bri Guy—you will always be “the best.” ❤

Brian’s funeral service will start at 12:00 PM with 2 hours’ visitation beforehand on Tuesday, October 28th, at the Hopkins Community Church located at 2142 128th Avenue, Hopkins, MI 49328. Following the service will be a luncheon at 2:30 PM.

10/22/2025

Juanita Martinez
June 7, 1954 - October 19, 2025

Juanita Martinez, 71, of Holland, MI, passed away Sunday, October 19, 2025 at her home. Born June 7, 1954 in San Benito, TX, she was the daughter of the late Fernando Decilos and Marie Juarez and was the wife of Antonio Carrizalez Martinez.

Juanita spent 50 years of her life in a beautiful marriage with Antonio Martinez. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to many. She had such a deep love for all of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Juanita was known for her big heart, and loving everyone as family. She saw people for who they were, and truly loved them for it. Her time was spent pouring her love into others, and spending time with her family. She was happiest when she was with her family, and she gave them all the love she had. She showed people her love through kindness, care, boasting of how proud she was, and constantly worrying for you. Her love was the greatest gift to everyone around her. Knowing Juanita, was knowing the most beautiful love on this earth.

She is surivived by her husband Antonio Martinez, as well as her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Her children are Martha (Chris) Toro , Claudia Esquivel, Alexander (Jeanie) Martinez and Jose (Brittany) Martinez. Her grandchildren Richard (Monica) Aguirre, Alyssa Aguirre, and her 2 children Isabella & Naomi, Fransico Toro, Aniella Toro, Joel (Jovita) Reyna and their children Eliso ,Luci, Ehlani, Ismael Reyna , Santiago Zavala, Nadieana Esquivel, Aliana, Delia, Sebastian Martinez, Damacio Martinez, Elliot Martinez, Luciano Martinez and Karinna Martinez.

Juanita Martinez, will be missed, and remembered for being the beautiful and loving woman she always was.

The family will receive friends at Chappell Funeral Home on Friday, October 24, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 PM officiated by Pastor Carlos Lopez. Juanita will be laid to rest in East Saugatuck Cemetery immediately following the service at the funeral home.

Gorden Funeral Residence & Chappell Funeral Home

11/05/2025

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