Marlys Jelsema

On July 12, Marlys entered into Glory. She was the oldest child of Marvin and Phyllis Klyn, who beautifully combined their names to create hers.

She grew up in Hudsonville and graduated from Unity Christian High School where her father taught history for 29 years. Marv also made history for Marlys by setting her up with her husband of 31 years, Terry Jelsema. Post high school, she attended Grand Rapids Junior College where she earned the title of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She worked Oncology at St. Mary’s until her dream came true of becoming a mom to her first child, Justin. From there, she was promoted to being a full-time mother.

Being adopted and raised by such admirable, loving parents, she knew it was her mission to provide that same life for others. Marlys was a natural caretaker, a modern-day Mother Teresa. She was selfless and loved unconditionally; she embraced others. Her ability to empathize and make a real connection with others’ hurt was unparalleled. Marlys demonstrated unrelenting support for those she loved, and was always a hug away when things became trying. She was the epitome of beautiful, inside and out. The love in her green eyes, tenderness in her voice, and soft and comforting embrace have transformed so many lives.

Her family will always remember her as a woman of God, mother, Nana, confidant, role model, and a true best friend. She held her always growing family together by love, welcoming in numerous foster babies and keeping the door open for those who were motherless.

Having helped her mother through a long battle with Alzheimer’s, Marlys made it her mission in life to volunteer at Sunset Manor and Brookcrest. She led the hymn sing every Tuesday, and nothing brought Marlys greater joy than honoring God and her mother.

Marlys was preceded in death by her mother, Phyllis Klyn.

She will be missed by Terry, her husband of 31 years; father, Marvin Klyn; sons Justin (Samantha) Jelsema, Jacob Jelsema, James (Treza) Tap, and David Jelsema; daughters Jessica (Alyssa) Jelsema, Julia Jelsema, Joslynn Jelsema and Isabella Jelsema; five grandchildren Kaden, Liam, and Gavin Jelsema, Ler and Goamaar Tap; sibling, Dan (Sally) Klyn; her dear cousin, Pam Klyn; beloved family members Bruce Blitch and Sherrin Krueger; and half-siblings Treasure, Karter, and Ginger.

Remembrance services will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 19, 2019 at Ridge Point Community Church, 340 - 104th Ave., Holland, Michigan. Relatives and friends may meet Marlys' family from 6 to 8 p.m., both Wednesday and Thursday, July 17 and 18, 2019 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Marlys to Sunset Manor Reflections or Brookcrest - The Garden.

The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcares.com.

To view the Keepsake Video please click on the link below.

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