Janice Marie Donnelly Gier, known and beloved by nearly everyone in Holland simply as “Gigi,” passed away peacefully at home on the morning of Friday, July 3rd, 2026, surrounded by her devoted husband of 53 years and children.
Born on August 17, 1950, to Doris and Charles Donnelly, Janice grew up with a warmth and generosity of spirit that would come to define her entire life. She was a proud graduate of Portage Central in Kalamazoo and went on to earn her degree with honors from Northwood University.
She is preceded in death by her sister, Sharon Bailey. She is survived by her beloved husband, David Gier Jr.; her children Katrina (Todd) Tulgestke, Kyle (Rachael) Gier, Kara (Mark) Stuit, Krista (Kevin) Chalifour, and Kory (Alicia) Gier; and 16 grandchildren who knew her simply as “Gigi” — a name that said everything about the role she played in their lives.
To know Janice was to feel immediately at home. Her door was always open — to children, to friends, to neighbors, and to every stray cat that wandered close enough to sense the warmth inside. She was a second mother to countless kids in the Holland community, a master host who had a rare gift for making any gathering feel like a celebration. Her love language was simple and unmistakable: thoughtful gifts and homemade sweets shared generously with everyone around her.
Janice radiated happiness wherever she went, her ever-present smile a welcome sight to all who knew her. She was a familiar and cherished face downtown Holland, often spotted strolling past the shops she adored — JB and Me and Frances Jaye among her favorites. For years she could also be found at the family business, Holland Bowl Mill, warmly greeting guests and delighting in giving tours with the enthusiasm of someone sharing their very favorite secret.
She was, in every sense, the heart of Holland — a devoted wife to David, mother to five, and Gigi to sixteen, woven into the fabric of this community through decades of kindness, laughter, and open arms.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 9 from 5:00–8:00pm at Dykstra Funeral Home – Mulder Chapel, 188 32nd Street, Holland, MI 49423.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 10 at 10:00am at Fellowship Reformed Church, 2165 W. Lakewood Blvd, Holland, MI 49424.
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