Elaine E. Brouwer

BROUWER, Elaine E.
of Portage Passed away June 16, 2011 at Rose Arbor Hospice Care after a very brief illness. She was born May 1, 1945 in Enkhuizen, Netherlands, to the late Henry and Gertie Apotheker Grashuis. She was 10 years old when she and her parents came to the USA. Elaine was united in marriage to James Brouwer, Jr. on September 10, 1965. Elaine was self-employed as an upholsterer for many years. She was an active member of Southern Heights Christian Reformed Church for over 45 years where she also served as the church custodian. Elaine possessed a true passion in doing the work of the Church and was a true believer in the power of Prayer. She enjoyed spending time with her family and doing needlepoint. Surviving Elaine are her husband, James Brouwer, Jr.; children, Mike Tammie Brouwer of Kalamazoo, Laura Heidi Heil Brouwer of Davenport, IA and Rachel Steve Stafford of Kalamazoo; grandchildren, Ben Brouwer, Becca Brouwer, Nate Stafford and Sarah Stafford; brothers and sisters, Jane Darwin, Frank Devorah, Ann Jerry, Margaret, John Beth and Bill Pam; and several nieces and nephews. Also preceding Elaine in death was a brother, Hank. Family will greet friends on Monday from 4-8pm at the Southern Heights Christian Reformed Church, 4141 East Hillandale Dr., Kalamazoo, and a celebration of life service will take place on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. with a light luncheon served immediately after. Private burial will take place at Mt. Ever-Rest Cemetery. Arrangements are by the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 East Centre Ave. Memorials may be directed to Southern Heights CRC Church or to Rose Arbor Hospice Care, Kalamazoo, MI.