Suzanne Joyce Boerigter, 76, of Holland, Michigan, was born on May 8, 1950, and passed away on September 29, 2026. Born in Holland, MI, to Hilda and William Kievit, Suzanne’s life was marked by steady devotion to family, faithful service, and a quiet generosity that showed itself most clearly in the way she gave her time and care to others.
Raised in the Holland area, Suzanne grew up on a farm and was one of six siblings, the second youngest. As a child she was always taking apart electronics and watches to figure out how they worked. Early on, she learned the value of hard work and patience—lessons formed in everyday responsibilities, from caring for the chickens to riding the pigs. She attended West Ottawa High School, where she found a special place in the school’s theater program as well as in community theater. She was known for willingly helping with anything and everything backstage, taking pride in the work that made a production possible. She graduated in 1968.
On September 1, 1969, Suzanne met Tom, and on May 8, 1970, they were married. Together they built their home and raised their family in the Holland/Zeeland area, shaping a life centered on togetherness and the simple, lasting joys of being present for one another. Suzanne worked for most of her career at Baker Furniture, serving as a color technician for much of their wood furniture. Through years of dedicated work, she brought care and consistency to all she did, retiring in 2005 when Baker closed.
While their children were growing up, Suzanne made family time a priority, often taking everyone camping and fishing—memories Russell and Tammy remember fondly. She was also a gifted baker who generously shared her skills, teaching the kids to cook and bake and having Tammy help decorate cakes she was asked to make. Her talent and patience even extended to a few elaborate wedding cakes that turned out amazing.
After retirement, Suzanne’s selfless love for family was especially evident as she took on the role of caregiver for her sister Carolyn, offering compassion, steadiness, and devoted support. In quieter moments, she enjoyed shopping or tending to her garden, filled with flowers and vegetables of all kinds—perhaps with a few weeds mixed in as well. As her children grew and welcomed families of their own, Suzanne became an incredible grandparent; her grandchildren were her pride and joy.
A lifelong member of Immanuel Church in Holland, Suzanne spent more than 60 years there, with faith central to her life. She often assisted with Sunday school, reflecting her devotion to God and her gentle commitment to helping children and supporting the church community.
Suzanne is survived by her husband, Tom Boerigter; her daughter, Tammy (Scott Dings) Boerigter; her son, Russell (Meghann) Boerigter; her grandchildren, Blake McLean, Heath McLean, Micah Boerigter, and Bridget Boerigter; her sisters, Carolyn Overweg and Patricia (Ed) DeHaan; her brother, James (Joy) Kievit; her sisters-in-law, Sharon Bosch and Verna Rosignol; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Donald Kievit and Gary Kievit; her brother-in-law, Gary Boerigter; her parents, William Kievit and Hilda Kievit; and her mother and father-in-law Gilbert and Jean Boerigter.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026 with visitation 10:00 am to 10:45 am and funeral service starting 11:00 am at Immanuel Church 325 104th Avenue Holland, MI 49423. In lieu of flowers a trust account will be set up for Thomas at Parda Credit Union in the near future.
