Ellen Aardema

Ellen Mildred (Wickstra) Aardema, age 97 of Whitehall, passed peacefully into heaven surrounded by her family on Thursday, February 11, 2016. Ellen was born in New Era, Michigan on August 10, 1918, to John & Jessie (Batten) Wickstra. She married Henry Aardema on October 13, 1939 in New Era. After graduating from Shelby High School, Ellen worked at the Tannery in Whitehall. Once her children were grown she worked at Kroger grocery stores. Ellen was a long time member of Ferry Memorial Reformed Church and was active in church bazaars. Ellen enjoyed needle arts, cooking and baking for her large family get togethers, playing cards, and she was an excellent Scrabble player. Ellen's family recipes have been handed down to the generations, and are a valued part of family memories of visiting "Gram" on Sunday afternoons. Her lively stories of growing up on a farm and remembrances of family events are cherished by all of her family. Her sweet smile, big hugs, and gentle laugh will be treasured always. SURVIVORS Ellen's unconditional love will be missed by her four children, Robert (Patricia) Aardema & Roberta Krause, Jacqueline (Larry) Cone and Doug (Barbara) Aardema. Her wisdom and guidance will be missed by her nine grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews and extended family members. She was preceded in death by Henry,her husband of 59 years, her brothers Howard (Hester) Wickstra, Jay (Mildred) Wickstra, and Edward Wickstra and her sister, Betty (Jack) Phillips. SERVICE Thursday, February 18, 2016, 11:00 am at Ferry Memorial Reformed Church with Pastor Amy DeGroot Bowling officiating. Interment in New Era Cemetery. VISITATION Wednesday, February 17, 2016, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Clock Funeral Home - Muskegon. MEMORIAL: In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to the Alzheimer's Association. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guest book. Clock Funeral Home- Muskegon