Mary Linda (Englerth) Herrema

Mary Linda (Englerth) Herrema, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother ,great grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2024, at the age of 85 in Hopkins, MI. Born on December 20, 1938, in Grand Rapids, MI, to Lawrence and Winifred (Johnson) Englerth, Mary grew up with a passion for the natural world that would blossom into a lifetime of nurturing growth in both her gardens and her family.

A proud graduate of Kelloggsville High School in 1957, Mary pursued further education with vigor and curiosity. While her academic journey included some college, it was her innate talent for horticulture that truly defined her professional path. Mary's green thumb and artistic eye led her to enhance the family business Englerth Gardens, a business where she thrived as a grower and designer, bringing beauty to the lives of others through her work.

Mary's life was one of deep devotion, not only to her gardens but also to her beloved husband of 64 years, Ken Herrema. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter. She leaves behind a legacy of love with her children, Kenneth Daniel Herrema, Heather (Jeff) Ledger, Holly (Tom) De Shane, and Skipper David Herrema. Her sister and brother-in-law, Barb (Frank) Reeder, will also hold dear the memories of the times they shared. Mary's joy was multiplied through her adored 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild, each of whom she cherished with her whole heart.

A woman of faith, Mary was a dedicated member of her church, where she proudly lifted her voice in song as a member of the choir. Her love for Jesus was evident in her every action, and she lived her life as a testament to her beliefs. Mary's creative spirit and loving nature were the cornerstones of her existence, and these traits shone brightly in her every endeavor.

An animal lover through and through, Mary found great happiness in the company of her dogs and cats, but it was her horse, Daisy May, that held a special place in her heart. Raising and riding horses was not just a hobby for Mary, but a way of life that brought her immense joy and peace. She shared this love with her grandchildren, creating cherished memories during their trips to the beach on Lake Michigan, where the sand, surf, and laughter were abundant.

Mary's life was a tapestry woven with love, faith, and creativity. She approached each day with a heart full of love, a soul sustained by faith, and a mind brimming with creative ideas. Her ability to see the beauty in the world and in the people around her was a gift that she generously shared, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.

As we bid farewell to Mary Linda (Englerth) Herrema, we celebrate a life well-lived and a woman well-loved. Her spirit will continue to bloom in the gardens she tended, in the melodies sung by her church choir, and in the hearts of her family, who will forever cherish the warmth and light she brought into their lives. Mary's legacy is one of enduring love and beauty, and it will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the stars guide the night sky. Her life was a reflection of the words that best described her: loving, faith-filled, and creative. Mary will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on as a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mary's visitation will be on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at Hopkins United Methodist Church from 10:00am - 11:00am with a funeral service at 11:00am officiated by Pastor Kelsey French. A private graveside will follow the service to Maplewood Cemetery with an open luncheon to follow.

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