I remember Grandma through the eyes of a grandson. Grandma, to me, was everything a grandson could want in a Grandmother. She gave quality time, spoiled me rotten as a child, sacrificed herself for my wellbeing, and was always a steady and comforting figure in my life. 

Quality time. As a now parent, I have no idea how Grandma and Grandpa did it. The camping trips to Ludington State Park and Holland State park are some of my favorite memories as a child. At times they had up to 7 grandkids staying with them. They gave up their vacation time to take us with them. The time and energy and money spent to give us the experience is absolutely astounding. While the grandkids were tearing through the camp ground they were preparing food, keeping us out of (most) trouble, giving us a safe place to stay, breaking up fights, and desperately trying to get us to go to bed on time. The thought of doing that myself is absolutely exhausting…but they did it. Some summers they did it multiple times. House of flavors, pizza at chuck wagon, Russ’, Pizza hut lunch buffet…and more. I’ll never forget that. 

No doubt many will mention Christmas and everything that it meant to Grandma. She seemed to live for it and was generous to a fault. Except I realize it isn’t really a fault at all. I didn’t need all the gifts she gave me. I now know that people show love differently. People have different love ‘languages’. Grandma clearly expressed love through all that she gave. She loved to give presents, give time and gifts of food. Using this as a measuring tool it means I was very well loved…more than I deserved. 
Grandma will always be missed but I rest in the hope of our shared Christian faith…that we will see each other again, that this is not the end, and that there will be day when we will celebrate together again. Maybe on the heavenly version of the Lake Michigan beach in Ludington State Park!


So sad to read about Jan's passing. My memories come from many years ago. The Sunday morning after church coffees around the kitchen table. I also have memories of the cousins going to the beach for picnics. And of course the big Thanksgiving dinners at Aunt Mable and Uncle Heine's... So many happy times. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during theses difficult days.

Praying for comfort and peace for the entire Diekema family...such wonderful memories of aunt Jan...always smiling while drinking her cup of coffee as we chatted around the kitchen table at Grandma's house.  We all loved this sweet peaceful woman. 

Aunt Jan. I have such warm and wonderful memories of her… an open door, an open heart, and always a homemade baked goodie. 

Aunt Jan was easy to be around. When I was a shy young girl, she made me feel welcome… with little fanfare… just a warm invitation. I remember several summers when she and the family invited me on their camping trip. It was ok for me to be quiet, or to color on paper plates, or sit by the fire. Anything was ok. 

I remember visiting their home many years ago when Del and Jan's grandchildren needed child-care… and Jan would sit by the table, taking a moment with each child, to address each bump and answer each question. She was at peace with the noise and clutter of so many…. including the many many dogs running around under foot. Oh, and yes, did I mention the homemade goodies? 

Such kind and gentle love. Contentment. Peace.

Looking forward to seeing you again, Aunt Jan! 

Love, “Lisa”

I remember Aunt Jan as always being warm and welcoming with a smile and a twinkle in her eye. Whenever we visited, we’d have a picnic on the beach by the red lighthouse. Her legacy lives on in all the love she poured into her kids and grandkids. 
❤️ Judi (Boerigter) Murray

OBITUARY

Janice Gayle Diekema

July 27, 1940 – January 4, 2022

Lakeshore Memorial Services

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