Stephanie Lynne Kerkstra

Without speaking a word, she showed us that a life filled with love was all that mattered. She demonstrated her love for us in so many ways…that sweet smile, following us with her eyes, and always laughing at all the nutty things we would do to keep her happy. She adored us and we adored her right back! She was a fighter, and even through her pain, put on a brave face, knowing that we always had her best interests at heart. She was an awesome girl through and through.

Stephie was preceded in death by her grandparents William and Virginia Stephan, Okke and Ida Kerkstra, and her uncle, John Kerkstra.

She is survived by her parents Ed and Susan Kerkstra; her brother, David (Ashley); and her nephews Leland, Paxton, and Graeme Kerkstra. She was also lucky enough to meet her brother Vince Umlor (Amy) and his children Tyler, Dominic, and Shelby before she passed. She is also survived by her loving aunts and uncles, Ed and Hennie Kaleefey, Gary and Clara VanderLaan, Mike and Ida Boyd, James Stephan, and Dan and Terry Stephan; and all her cousins. Also left to mourn her loss, are her nurses Becky Kenney, Shelly Orrell, Brenda V., recently retired Marcia Flikkema, and all the nurses who came before them.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 3937 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, with Fr. Chris Rouech celebrant. The family will receive relatives and friends from 5-8 pm Monday at Cook Funeral Home (West building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, and Tuesday one hour prior to Mass at church.

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

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan.