Nellie L. Scholtens

Ever faithful, Nellie Scholtens was a loving example of God's abiding love through her gentle nature and kind heart. In all she did, she was a hard and dedicated worker but an equally fun loving woman who enjoyed the outdoors. Always to be remembered with love, she will be sadly missed. Looking back over the last 90 years, it is clear to see how early innovations, discoveries and advancements paved the way for the world in which we live today. From the world of fashion to the world of politics, forces clashed in the 1920s to produce one of the most explosive decades of the century. An age of prohibition, the prosperity experienced during these days greatly improved the American way of life. Even so, it was a simpler time in America when family, heritage and honor was a priority and hope for promising tomorrows filled everyone's hearts. The shoreline city of Muskegon, Michigan was no exception to these times, but for Cornelius and Jenny (Williams) Spoelman, it was a time of exceptional joy when on February 27, 1921 they lovingly welcomed the birth of their daughter, Nellie. Nellie enjoyed a typical childhood in her family's east Muskegon neighborhood. Raised in a faith filled home with a strong Dutch background, she grew up in their bustling household of six children with her siblings, Ralph, Ann, Neil, Gordon and Vivian. As a youngster she attended Moon School Elementary and developed a close, lifelong friendship with Markie Mellema. She often helped with household chores and looked after her younger siblings. From early on Nellie formed a close bond with her father and when he died in 1972, it proved to be a difficult time for her. She was also very close to her Grandma Williams as a young girl. She spent much time on her grandparents Ravenna farm where treasured times were shared enjoying the company of extended family. Having graduated from Muskegon High School with the Class of 1938, Nellie went on to work at the Maranatha Bible Christian Camp. With her faith filled heart, it was a wonderful experience as she enjoyed working in the Christian atmosphere while taking in the many activities offered there. However, attending another Christian function would soon change the course of Nellie's life for the rest of her days. George Scholtens came into Nellie's life and her heart was glad. Quite smitten from the start, the two began a dating relationship and before long found themselves blessed in love. Their love only continued to grow and strengthen, and on January 31, 1941 they were happily married in their hometown of Muskegon. Their first home was a rental house located on Old Grand Haven Road where they shared a brief time together before George was shipped out during World War II. He was a member of the U.S. Army and bravely served across Europe from France to Germany. It was a difficult time for Nellie while he was away, but she filled her time with her job working at the Sealed Power Corporation. At the war's end George returned home to Nellie's thankful heart and welcoming arms. In 1946 they were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Patricia and in 1951 they welcomed Dale. As a mother, Nellie's love for her Lord was evident. They attended Church of the Open Door where she was very involved, especially teaching Sunday school. Fun times made for lasting memories as she and George loved playing pinnacle with church friends on Sunday evenings. A trip to Canada with their pop-up trailer in tow with four other couples and their children was enjoyed by all. Truly a happy family, whenever they shared family times together it was certain to be fun, especially while enjoying their love for snowmobiling, boating and walks along the beach. Nellie and George began building a house and after its' completion in 1966, 1775 Shorewood Drive became their new family home where they raised their children and made wonderful memories. Nellie loved the outdoors and working in her large garden where she enjoyed picking the fruits of her labor to use in one of her good, home cooked evening meals. With her love of strawberry shortcake, they also tended to their thriving garden of strawberries. Nellie made a good home for George and the kids. She enjoyed housekeeping and always had freshly baked treats for her family to enjoy. Forest Park Covenant Church later became their church home where Nellie remained a longtime member. Christian education was dear to her heart as well as her church family. At church she served in many capacities over the years where she loved being active. After her children grew older Nellie began working as a receptionist for Dr. Hale. It was an especially difficult time for her when her son Dale joined the Marine Corp and after many long nights in prayer, she was glad for his safe return. Before long Nellie discovered the love of grandchildren. She was elated with the birth of her first grandchild, Erika and was lovingly close to each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Nothing brought Nellie greater joy than giving them her love and affection. Over the years Nellie acquired the nickname, "lead foot Lucy" but somehow managed to always talk her way out of receiving a speeding ticket. She loved to travel, and in 1981 when she and George met their good friends the Weatherly's the two couples made for compatible traveling companions. They shared a trip out west to Colorado and a unforgettable trip to England with Joe and Bernice. They also enjoyed their travels to Wisconsin where they visited their daughter, Pat and her family. After Nellie experienced the death of her beloved George in 2006 she was quite devastated and trips to see Pat offered her a welcome relief from the pain of her loss. The years following found Nellie's own health gradually declining. She remained steadfast in her faith and continued to be a loving example of all a devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend should be. At the age of 90, Nellie sadly died on Wednesday, March 30, 2011. Although her gentle soul is gone from touch, she will be fondly remembered for the beautiful and kind hearted woman she was as she reunites with those who have gone before her into heaven's pure light. Nellie is survived by her son, Dale (Phyllis) Scholtens of Muskegon; daughter, Patricia Hedstrom of Wisconsin; four grandchildren: Erika (Andy) Mehlos, Tim (Julie) Hedstrom, David Scholtens, Daniel Scholtens; two great-grandchildren, Hannah Scholtens, Brycen Hedstrom; sisters: Ann Kieft, Vivian (David) Bouman. Besides her husband, George, she was also preceded in death by her brothers, Neil, Gordon and Ralph. SERVICE: Monday, April 4, 2011, 11:00 AM at Forest Park Covenant Church with Rev. Wally Coots officiating. VISITATION: Monday, one hour prior to the service at Forest Park Covenant Church. MEMORIAL: Muskegon Rescue Mission. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory of Nellie or to sign her online guest book.