Beatrice “Bea” Visser (nee Menken), passed away on January 26, 2024, at the age of 88.
Born on July 7th, 1935, in Holland, Michigan, Bea leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, grace, and unwavering faith. Her parents were John and Grace Menken (Vork), and she was the youngest of four daughters—Geraldine Kamps, Frieda Althuis, and June VanDyke. Bea was a beloved wife, mother, Oma, and great Oma to those dearest to her. In 1955, on a blind date, Bea met the love of her life and beloved husband of over 67 years, Jake Visser. Together they raised two beautiful girls, Pat and Judy. Bea was a loving and supportive mother, and later, a dear friend to both of her daughters. Bea, or Oma, as she was affectionately called by her grandchildren, knew how to throw the best sleepovers –they always included cheeseballs, spaghettiOs, dress up clothes, I Love Lucy or The Munsters, or a Disney movie. While Bea never learned how to swim, she always spent time poolside at the neighbors while her grandkids splashed around, and also made her watch far too many unprofessionally choreographed gymnastic routines.
Bea also enjoyed working for the Holland BPW and waste treatment plant for many years. In her retirement, and prior to it, she spent much of her time attending events for her daughters and grandchildren, and even great grandchildren. Sundays were spent at church, with a purse full of Mentos for the grandkids and their friends, and following church, the whole family gathered around Bea and Jake’s table, where Bea served an impressive spread of Dutch cookies, taco salad, or barbecue. Bea’s taco salad and barbecue recipes are used often by her daughters and grandchildren. Bea’s daughters, son in law, Mike, and grandchildren all have great memories around Bea’s dining room table, sharing stories from their weeks, and laughing together. Bea and Jake spent many winters as snow birds, enjoying their time and sunshine in Pompano Beach, Florida. She was a member of Prospect Park CRC, Montello Park CRC and more recently enjoyed services at Providence Church and Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church. Bea will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother & dear friend, Oma, and great Oma to her family, and a sweet, kindhearted woman to those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Bea is survived by her daughter Pat Root, and daughter and son in law Judy and Mike Wolters
Grandchildren: Katie and Alex Emery, Sarah Kozal, Christopher and Abby Wolters, and Rachel Root. Greatgrandchildren: Cole, Reagan, Oliver, Harper, Roya, Mia, and Colin
Her hair stylist and dear friend, Karen Meyer, friends at Providence and Montello Park Church, and other dear friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband Jake, who passed away in July of 2023–separated in death by only six months, her parents, and her sisters.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 30th at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E 16th St, Holland with Pastor Dean Slenk officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Resthaven Maple Woods Cottages or Providence Church.
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