Johanna Groothuis

GROOTHUIS, Johanna Age 84 Portage Johanna went home to be with her Lord on December 4, 2006. She was born December 9, 1921 in Muskegon, MI the daughter of Bert and Sena Ten Hove Vanderwier. She was married to Rhyne Groothuis on March 20, 1942; and after 51 years together, he preceded her to glory on July 27, 1993. They raised their family in Muskegon before moving to Kalamazoo in 1966. Johanna was a member of the First Reformed Church of Portage for 40 years and was involved in many committees and activities. In her later years, she loved to spend time with her friends having lunch and playing games. Her home was always open to anyone who wanted to join her for afternoon tea. She lived her faith and was always open and willing to share it with family and friends. She was also preceded in death by her brother, George Vanderwier, a granddaughter, Linda Grove and a great granddaughter, Angela Hess. Surviving family members include her children, Richard & Lois Grove of Urbandale, IA; Edward & Sandra Carlson of Portage, MI; Paul & Patricia Groothuis of Niles, MI; Mark & Kristin Groothuis of Allendale, MI; John & Carolyn McConnell of Tarpon Springs, FL; and Greg & Laura Reynhout of Kalamazoo; 16 grandchildren; and 28 great grandchildren. A visitation with her family will be held on Wednesday from 4-7 PM at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Ave. Following a private family committal at South Portage Cemetery, a Memorial Service will be conducted on Thursday at 1:00 PM in the Oakwood Bible Church, 4100 Oakland Drive, with Pastors Mike Drew and Steve Johnson, officiating. The family has designated memorials be given to the First Reformed Church of Portage or the Kalamazoo Youth for Christ.