Clariss Van Doornik, age 97, passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2019.
Clariss was born in Fremont to Jake and Gertrude Bowman on October 11, 1922. She moved to Hamilton, Michigan in her 20’s where she operated a variety store with her sister, Della. Soon after moving to Hamilton, she met her husband, Marvin. They married in 1951. Together, they owned and operated the Hamilton Food Center for over 30 years. After Marvin’s death in 1981, Clariss remained active; volunteering at Holland Hospital, Rest Haven, as well as her church. She was an active member of Hamilton Reformed Church until 1984 when she moved to Holland and became a member of First Reformed Church. She spent much time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Always seeking new adventures, she learned how to downhill ski in Colorado at the age of 70. She had very many friends; so much so that she had a hard time keeping track of them all. Often someone would come up and introduce themselves, and Clariss, perhaps not remembering their name but recalling details of their family and lives, would interject some humor or story.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Van Doornik in 1981 and grandson, Derrick Van Doornik in 2002.
She is survived by her son, Dr. Steven (Eileen) Van Doornik; son, Fred (Lori) Van Doornik; son, William (Sara) Van Doornik; grandchildren, Michael (Lauren) Van Doornik, Alissa (Cory) Hamblin, Kelli Green, Hans Van Doornik, Amanda (Paul) Rowe, Tina (Alex) Ontkos, Joseph Van Doornik (fiancé Marissa Ortisi); great-grandchildren, Autumn Van Doornik, Charlotte Rowe, Liam Rowe, Kelsey Hamblin, Quinn Van Doornik; and sister-in-law, Elaine Van Doornik.
Visitation is 4:00-7:00 pm, Friday, November 29, 2019 at Langeland Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16
th
St. Holland, MI 49423.
A Memorial service will be at 11:00 am Saturday, November 30th at First Reformed Church, 630 South State, Holland, MI 49423 with Rev. Dr. Daniel Gillett officiating.
Memorial contributions may be given in Clariss’ name to Kids Hope USA or First Reformed Church.
Burial to take place in Riverside Cemetery, Hamilton.
