We have had the privilege of calling Garth our Christian friend for far too few years. May God uphold and bless Ellie and other family members. We thank God for letting us know this kind man...

 Posted by Pastor Sam and Jill Hendrickson - Jenison, MI January 23, 2008

We're so grateful that these verses are there to comfort during times of grief. We are praying for the Lord's sustaining grace for you, Ellie. 
 I Corinthians 15:55-57: O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

 Posted by Greg and Jennifer Linscott - Grand Rapids, MI January 23, 2008

I am so sad to hear of Garth's passing. But I believe he had a rich life. He is a huge part of my childhood memories. His niece, Shelly, was a good friend of mine and we were neighbors along with Garth. A kinder man there never will be and my heart goes out to Shelly, Ellie, and all family members. I pray that God's peace will wash over you, for it is sufficient.

 Posted by Cheryl Longwell Knutson - Saranac, MI January 24, 2008

We only met Garth and Ellie a couple of times but they were great friends of my parents, Joel and Ada Hoogendoorn. We send our sympathy and prayers to Ellie and the rest of the family. I know Garth meant the world to my parents and they enjoyed the time spent with him a great deal and he will be missed. I always enjoyed when my mom would call from their vacations in North Carolina/Tennessee and tell me they were with Garth and Ellie, sitting on the deck, enjoying a cup of coffee and watching the birds. Take care Ellie and know we are praying for you. Lyle and Leanne Kramer

 Posted by Leanne Kramer - Fulda, MN January 24, 2008

Eleanor, My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. You two were one of my favorite sellers over the years, you were a very special couple. And your in my prayers.

 Posted by Cyndee Hesche - Saranac, MI January 24, 2008

Garth was one of the faces I always looked forward to seeing. You could see Christ's love shining through Garth's smiling face. Sue and I will miss him til we're all together again. We love you Ellie and we'll see you soon. You are our cherished friend.

 Posted by William and Susan Kessler - Wayland, MI January 24, 2008

Dear Ellie, Please know that I fully can understand exactly what you are going through right now and will go through in the days ahead. The LORD is sufficient to carry you through one day at a time. You and Garth have been such a blessing to Mary Esther, Nick, Em and Kyle, as well as to Warren and Althea, and Mim. I feel like I know you both through them. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. Love in Christ, Shari Pedde

 Posted by Shari Pedde - Severn, MD January 24, 2008

Condolences from a school friend class of 1945. We shared a lot of good times together back then.

 Posted by Gideon Junior Diamon - Colorado Springs, CO January 25, 2008

Dear Friends, We were so sorry to hear of Garth's passing. We will always remember him as our "friendly TV repairman". Always ready to help with a smile on his face.You are in our thoughts and prayers, Russ and Margaret

 Posted by Russ and Margaret Breckon - Saranac, MI January 25, 2008

Ellie, Garth was a special man. He reminded me of my father. Our prayers for peace and strength are constantly with you. We rejoice that Garth is with the Lord.

 Posted by Lewis Family - Hudsonville, MI January 26, 2008

Ellie, We are keeping you in our prayers at this time of your loss. Les and Ann

 Posted by Les and Ann - Aiken, SC January 26, 2008

Mom, you and Dad were the best foster parents any child could hope to have and I am so glad I ended up with you. Dad was a great man, christian, and mentor, and he will be dearly missed. I love you.

 Posted by Erik Auberg - Ladson, SC February 29, 2008

OBITUARY

Gilbert Garth LaVean

April 3, 1928 – January 22, 2008

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