Jean P. Groeneveld

Jean Groeneveld was a strong willed woman who faced many challenges during her lifetime with perseverance and commitment. Her faith in God and her concern for the well-being of others gave her a sense of compassion and kindness toward those in need. A dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, Jean put the interests of her family before her own and always tried to do what was best for her loved ones. On New Year's Eve in 1919, one couple in Muskegon, Michigan, paid no attention to countdowns or resolutions. They were too busy counting toes and dreaming dreams about the new tiny baby that had just been born into their family. Little Jean was soon toddling around after her mother, learning about household tasks and about her strong Dutch heritage. When Jean was four years old, she became big sister to Marvin. Jean's parents modeled a strong work ethic and taught both of their children about responsibility and pitching in around the house. Jean's father worked as a cabinetmaker and her mother took in laundry and was a homemaker on Forest Avenue in Muskegon. When it was time for Jean to go to high school, she attended Muskegon High. During those years, she met a young man named Gerritt Groeneveld who was working as an apprentice shoe repairman and was seven years her senior. The two began dating seriously, and the class ring Gerritt bought for Jean doubled as her engagement ring. Jean graduated with the class of 1938 and she and Gerritt were wed the next year. The young couple built their first home on Glendale Avenue in Muskegon Heights. Jean was thrilled when they moved in and she thoroughly enjoyed establishing a loving, comfortable home. In the years following, the world faced the dark and tragic events of World War II and Jean joined the nation in praying for relatives and friends who were overseas. Even in the midst of the terrible news from across the globe, there were still moments of joy and laughter as life continued on. Jean and Gerritt received a tremendous gift when their firstborn, Roger John, was adopted into the family in 1944. Gerritt eventually owned and operated his own shop, Muskegon Heights Shoe Repair, on Summit Avenue. Jean managed the household and was grateful for what she had been given, but she longed for another child. On December 14, 1948, she and her boys were blessed with another lady in the house, little Norma Jean. Jean's faith was very important to her. The whole family attended church faithfully, including twice on Sunday, and Jean and Gerritt practiced what they preached through their service within the congregation. Jean made sure that both children graduated from West Michigan Christian High School, even though the cost of their education was financially burdensome at times. She wanted her children to build their lives on a foundation of faith that would not crumble. She taught them by word as well as by example to be people of character and to carry themselves with dignity while respecting others. In 1964, Roger joined the Air Force and was sent to the volatile region of Southeast Asia. Jean prayed fervently for his safe return and watched news reports of unfolding events with concern. She was relieved beyond measure when he returned to the States safely. Roger decided not to establish a permanent home in Michigan, but he and Jean still stayed in contact regularly. In 1967, Jean's first grandchild, Troy, was born and she took on the role of Grandma wholeheartedly. Over the next several years, she was thrilled to receive two more, and adored Tracy and Steve completely. After Norma graduated from high school, Jean was happy to have her stay at home and work as a cosmetologist. A few short years later, the family experienced a devastating loss when Gerritt passed away at the age of fifty-seven. Jean was devastated, but she took great comfort in her children and grandchildren. She didn't have much time to feel sorry for herself, anyway, since it became necessary for her to find a way to supplement her income. When Norma married and moved away, Jean decided to go to school. She completed her LPN training and began working with the elderly. She was employed in extended care facilities for the rest of her twenty-six year career, and was dedicated to the care and comfort of her patients. Next to her faith, Jean's family was the most important part of her life. She loved picnics and holiday gatherings, and looked forward to celebrating each new milestone and success. She put her family first and made sure each one knew how much they meant to her. She leaves them with sweet memories of her devotion and unconditional love. Jean is survived by her son, Roger (Dorothy) Groeneveld of Colorado; her daughter, Norma (Michael) Mager of Walker, Michigan; three grandchildren: Troy, Tracy, and Steve; eight great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerritt, in 1971, and by her brother, Marvin.