Audrey Wiltjer

Audrey Arlyn Wiltjer (Heeren), age 89, went to be with Jesus Sunday morning, October 1, 2023. Audrey will be greatly missed by her loving and devoted husband of 69 years, Phil Wiltjer; children Sandy and Phil Ouwinga, Bob and Guernite Wiltjer, Sue and Rog Kuipers, John and Diane Wiltjer; along with 24 grandchildren and 57 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Stellema; and sisters-in-law Marilyn Heeren and Betty (Wiltjer) TerKeurst. She is preceded in death by parents Elmer and Jean Heeren (Vanderlaan); parents-in-law John and Gertrude Wiltjer; brothers Edwin Heeren (Pat), Robert Heeren; brothers- and sisters-in- law Vern and Terry Warner, Jim and Lois Wiltjer, Richard TerKeurst.

Audrey was born June 14, 1934 in Grand Rapids to Jean and Elmer Heeren, and graduated from Grand Rapids Christian High School in 1952. Audrey worked as an LPN at Mary Free Bed Hospital until she followed Phil’s Army posting at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland. She was a devoted volunteer in many churches, schools, and mission organizations, including multiple mission trips with Phil to Russia to work in orphanages through Bethany Christian Services. They also volunteered in other mission organizations, including World Wide Christian Schools and World Renew. She was also a faithful volunteer for the Michigan Blood Bank for 33 years.

Audrey and Phil enjoyed time in Florida each winter, where they also volunteered at Missionary Flights International and Safe Space. They were actively involved in the formation and growth of Sunlight Community Church in Port St. Lucie, Florida. They were blessed with the opportunity to be able to travel extensively and enjoyed many wonderful adventures together.

Audrey’s primary focus in life was being a loving Christian wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was totally devoted to her Lord and Savior and her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the tuition assistance fund at the Christian school of your choice or Missionary Flights International (3170 Airman’s Drive, Fort Pierce, Florida 34946).

Visitation with friends and family will be from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at Cook Funeral Home, 2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 5 at Friendship CRC, 190 100th St. SE, Byron Center, MI 49315, with visitation from 9:30-10:15 a.m. prior to service.