Darlene Slachter

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Darlene Slachter, of Grand Haven, who peacefully entered the presence of her Lord on August 1, 2026, at the age of 65.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents Cornelius ("Casey") and Mary Verwys, and her dear brother, Cornelius ("Neal") Verwys.

She leaves behind her loving siblings Randy (Rosie) Verwys, Mary Koetje, Shirley Verwys, John Verwys, and Paul Verwys; daughter, Candie (Dustin) Sentz; and two adored granddaughters Eliana and Lyla Palmer. She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces Jamie (Skip) Short and Kaylee (Justin) Duram, and nephew, Kyle Koetje. She held a special place in the lives of her treasured great-nieces and great-nephews Raegan and Madison Short, Isaiah Verwys, and Sophia, Remington, Tucker, Easton, Asher, and Tate Duram. She also leaves behind extended family and countless friends whose lives were forever changed by her love, kindness, and unwavering faith.

She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel like family and faithfully checked in on those she loved. To many of her younger coworkers she became like a godmother—always offering a listening ear, sharing wisdom, teaching life lessons (and even how to drive), giving thoughtful advice, and lifting others up through heartfelt prayer. She shared a special bond with her dear young friend, Kayla Coats, whom she loved as family.

She enjoyed taking daily walks with her beloved dog, Bear, chatting with neighbors, laughing, shopping trips, canoeing, and just spending time with family and friends. Her contagious smile, uplifting spirit, and genuine love touched countless lives. Her faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. She loved the Lord with all her heart and lived out her faith through service, kindness, and generosity. Whether volunteering, helping those in need, or offering encouragement and prayer, she reflected Christ's love in all she did. She was humble, generous with her time, and thrifty in the way she lived, always thinking of others.

Above all else, she loved her family and wanted to be remembered for her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Though she will be deeply missed, her love, service, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. We find comfort knowing she has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” and now rests in the eternal joy of her Savior.

A celebration of her life will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, August 20, 2026 at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan, with visitation prior to the service beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will take place at Beaverdam Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor her memory to perform an act of kindness, serve someone in need, or support a ministry or charitable organization that reflects her compassionate heart.The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.