Susan Garvelink

Susan was born in Salford, England in 1953 to Olive and Joseph Wild, and she has lived up to her name every day since. Sue had a wild spirit, and a big heart, and within moments of meeting her, anyone knew this to be true.

Sue immigrated to the United States from Salford, England in 1960 at seven years of age. The family settled in Zeeland Michigan, and the three Wild sisters along with Joe and Olive created a multitude of memories together and grew roots over the years. Sue was incredibly proud to gain her American citizenship August 25, 1999, but never forgot her British roots.

Sue married and began her own family with her three children, Kimberly, Jennifer and Christopher. Sue began a life long career at Gentex, and with this gained lifelong, cherished friendships. However, in knowing Sue, these are just a few of the milestones in a life journey that was full of love, giving, and Sue’s feisty spirit.

Sue was honest, transparent and frank. You always knew how she felt, she didn’t sugar coat, and she didn’t soften, because no matter how she felt, it always came second to how she loved, and how she gave. Sue gave endlessly of her time for those she loved, especially her grandsons. She would hit the road for horse shows, learned to love soccer in every type of weather, and bowling quickly became a Saturday morning routine.

She loved fiercely and gave deeply. Sue was a large supporter of the passions of her people. It didn’t matter if it was an ocean away or right next door - whether it be a local bake sale, or her co-workers' medical battles, whatever she could give, she did, and did so with joy.

Sue retired from Gentex May 17, 2019 after 33 years of dedicated service. After doing so, she cherished her additional free-time with her husband Tim. Her favorite way to spend it was at the family property on Crooked Lake, sitting around a crackling fire or sipping coffee and watching a beautiful sunrise, her heart was truly at peace there.

The last leg of her journey was two months of fierce fighting, and Sue never backed down from the challenge, those who know her know she loved as fiercely as she fought - but it was time for her fight to turn to freedom. Freedom to be the beautiful, wild Sue we all love. Sue was surrounded by those who loved her as she was welcomed home on September 22, 2024.

Sue is preceded in death by her mother, Olive Wild, in 2002, her sister Rita in 1954 and Pauline in 2023. Sue is survived by her husband of 23 years, Tim Garvelink; Father, Joseph Wild; Sister, Lynn (Dave) Machiele; Children, Kimberly (Kevin) VanHuizen, Jennifer Harper, Christopher (Sarah) Brummels; Grandchildren, Kolten (Ashley) and Kameron VanHuizen and Cayden Brummels.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, September 29 from 1-3 pm and 5-7pm at Lakeshore Memorial Services - 11939 James St. Holland, 49424. A funeral service for Sue will be held on Monday, September 30 at 11am, and directly after the service there will be a small dessert bar and time to visit with loved ones followed by a private family graveside service.