Arlene M. Brinks

BRINKS, Arlene Portage Passed away, Wednesday, January 3, 2007, at her home in Portage. She was born January 3, 1931 to the late Gysbert and Gertrude Schippers Koopsen. Arlene graduated from Kalamazoo Central High school and went on to further her education by receiving her Nursing Degree from Mercy Hospital in Benton Harbor. She married Donald Brinks in Kalamazoo, on August 29, 1953, who survives her. After serving for 3 years as a Registered Nurse, she became a full-time mom. She was a dedicated believing, faithful and active member of Trinity Reformed Church in Kalamazoo, and served in many roles throughout her life for Trinity as well as volunteering for Hope College and Western Theological Seminary. She was one of the originals, of a group of ladies that began a Wednesday morning volleyball time at the church. During 2006, the Kalamazoo gazette ran a feature article on that charter group of ladies and those who continue to enjoy their time together each Wednesday. With her family being paramount, she also gave of herself by volunteering for the Red Cross for years. However, she did take some time for herself to enjoy her love of knitting and baking. Arlene lived by her life?s motto, ?Christ first, others second and Arlene last?; it was a testament of her life?s creed. She is survived by her husband; Donald Brinks of Portage; children, Kathy Waterstone of Holland, MI., Marc Brinks of Charlotte, NC., Keith Rebecca Brinks of Philadelphia, PA., Mary Dr. Louis Remynse of Battle Creek, MI., Kevin Robin Brinks of Commerce Township, MI; 13 grandchildren; sisters, Cornelia Crouch, Elaine Liggett, Norma Warren Erickson, Gertrude ?Trudie? Ervin Herzog; brother, Nelson Jennie Koopsen; and niece, Lorraine Crouch, whose love and professional care given to Arlene as she assisted Don in Arlene?s difficult and final hours is recognized and greatly appreciated by her family. Preceding her in death were; brother, Adrian Koopsen and; sister, Geraldine Jackson. Funeral services will take place Saturday, January 6, 2007, 1:00 at Trinity Reformed Church, 326 Cork St., Kalamazoo, MI., 49001 Rev. Jacques Nel and grandson Matt Waterstone, officiating. Interment following at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park. Visitation will take place at the church, prior to the service, from 11:30 to 1:00. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, 411 East Centre Ave., Portage, MI 49002. Memorial donations may be designated to, Hope College, Western Theological Seminary or S.W. Michigan Hospice by check, payable to Trinity Reformed Church.