Mary Lou Meeuwsen DeWitt entered Glory peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend to many, Mary Lou touched countless lives with her compassion, generous spirit and joy she brought others throughout her life.
Mary Lou grew up surrounded by beauty, working in her parents’ greenhouses where she developed a love of flowers. Her passion for gardening stayed with her throughout her life, and she found great joy tending to her own garden. She especially enjoyed creating flower arrangements and delivering them to brighten someone’s day — just one of the many ways she spread joy.
A proud graduate of the Zeeland High School Chix Class of 1958, Mary Lou went on to pursue her calling in nursing, earning her degree from Pine Rest Christian Hospital. Her lifelong career and volunteer efforts were rooted in compassion and service to others — a gift that came naturally to her.
For over 40 years, Mary Lou volunteered with Hospice of Holland, an organization that held a special place in her heart. Her dedication and compassion provided comfort and support to many families over the years.
Mary Lou was a lifelong learner and a vibrant presence in her community. She was an active member of Calvary on 8th Street in Holland, Michigan, and participated in several local organizations including the Hope Academy of Senior Professionals (HASP) and Evergreen Commons. Mary Lou also dedicated over 30 years of service as a volunteer with the Red Cross. She deeply valued the friendships, knowledge, and inspiration these communities brought into her life.
Mary Lou’s greatest joy was her family. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, always cheering them on in the activities and passions that brought them happiness. Her presence was constant, her encouragement unwavering. Her love, support, and cheering will be deeply missed — and fondly remembered.
She is survived by her children, grandchildren and great grandson, Dawn and Kurt Brinks (Mikaela and Ben Geers great grandson Parker, and Marcus and Allison Brinks), Sandra and Jeff Kayes (Rachael and Nate Miller, Brandon Kayes, and Shaun Kayes) Kelly DeWitt (Katelyn DeWitt, Haxel DeWitt, and Nathan DeWitt), and Kerri-Sue and James Smits (Kylie Smits, Conner Smits, and Kierea Smits).
Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents Oliver and Julia Meeuwsen, her brother Vern Meeuwsen, and her daughter-in-law Kristen De Witt.
Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her — through every flower that blooms and every act of compassion carried forward in her name.
Visitation will be 5-8 pm on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 East 16th Street, Holland. A celebration of Mary Lou’s life will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Calvary on 8th Street, 995 East 8th Street, Holland. Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland or Heights of Hope.
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