Char had a sweet and gentle personality and a heart for others. She deeply cherished her family, especially her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild! She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, cooking, reading, and traveling. Some of her favorite memories were made at the cottage on Barlow Lake. Most importantly, she loved her faith and living out her life as a reflection of her Savior. She was a dedicated member of Newhall Reformed Church for many years and was the last surviving charter member! She will be so deeply missed by those who knew her.
Char will be remembered by her children Doug (Vickie) Hoekstra Jr., Mary (Loren) Shuman; daughter-in-law, Bonnie Hoekstra; grandchildren Doug (Terry) Hoekstra III, Sarah (Tad) Bultema, Carrie (Myron) Varouhaikis, Joel (Julie) Shuman, Laura (James) Powell, Mike (Stephanie) Hoekstra, Mark (Heather) Hoekstra; 20 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and many extended relatives and friends.
Char was preceded in death by her husband, Doug Hoekstra; son, Mike Hoekstra; parents George and Adriana Ahlberg; and sister, Marlene (Bruce) Houseman.
Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Friday, August 14, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. A funeral service celebrating Char’s life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Char will be laid to rest at Grandville Cemetery.
In memory of Char and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sunset Legacy Foundation or Corewell Health West Hospice. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in Char’s online guest book.
