Crystal June Boogaart

Family and loved ones must say goodbye once again as Crystal Boogaart, age 91, passed away on March 22nd, just a few weeks after her husband Peter died on February 11th. Crystal was a well-loved and respected part of the Porter Hills Community for the last eleven years, serving as a volunteer, hosting the Sunday Vespers service, and enjoying warm friendships with others who shared her passion for painting, knitting, sewing, jewelry-making, and other handcrafts, until her declining health made these activities difficult. Her children Connee and Jack, Peter and Judith, Tom and Judy, and Phil and Sheri remember her with love as an intelligent and well-read person who was devoted to her family and was rarely seen without book nearby. Her caring nature made her look for the best in others, and she was a fine example of what kindness and grace look like. Her twelve grandchildren fondly remember the wonderful Sunday gatherings where the entire family crowded into the house on Mayfair Dr. to enjoy one of her delicious meals and scrumptious desserts. The family’s annual week at Pine Lake each summer also provided precious time together, and as spouses and then sixteen great-grandchildren joined the clan one by one, Crystal enthusiastically welcomed them all and made each one feel special and loved. Crystal was born to Harold and Ruby in Ada in 1925, and moved to northeast Grand Rapids as a young child. She attended Burr Oak Elementary School, and played violin solos at area church services and other functions during high school. She graduated as valedictorian of her class at Creston High School. She married Peter in 1946 following World War II, and became an active member of Third Reformed Church. Friends remember her as a leader in the church who taught Bible studies and mentored many young women over the years. Also surviving Crystal are her brother-in-law Morris Boogaart and several nephews and nieces. The family will gather to celebrate her life at Porter Hills Meeting House (at the west entrance) on Monday, March 27, with visitation at 10 AM and the memorial service at 11 AM. The family also wishes to give a special thanks to the Porter Hills staff for their care of Peter and Crystal, especially this past year. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Western Theological Seminary, 101 E 13th St, Holland, MI, 49423.

Arrangements under the direction of Reyers North Valley Chapel, Grand Rapids, MI.