Margaret Ellen Kroon

Margaret Kroon 7/19/1944 – 2/3/2022, of Grand Rapids, 76, passed away in the company of her loving family on February 3, 2022. Margaret was born in Detroit, MI on July 19, 1945 and adopted by Greta and Raymond Dornbusch in Grand Rapids, MI. As a young girl she devoted herself to making mischief, rescuing stray animals and earning merit beads for Campfire Girls. Margaret graduated from Creston High School. She was an excellent camp counselor, baton twirler and friend. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and a Master’s Degree from Grand Valley State University. On September 23, 1967 Margaret married Jack Kroon. Together they  raised three children, Melissa, Molly and Adam.  A resident of the north end of Grand Rapids, Margaret volunteered for the Creston Neighborhood Association. She helped raise funds for the renovation of Briggs Pool. She served as a volunteer in community events such as the annual Grand Rapids Art Festival. Forming friendships with a wide variety of people and loving generously was Margaret’s specialty.  Margaret and Jack were blessed to celebrate their 54th wedding anniversary last year.

Margaret served her community as a classroom and reading teacher. She loved to learn new skills and tackle challenges. She was recognized in 1994 with the Excellence of Teaching Award and in 2002 she received the Women of Achievement and Courage Award.  Her colleagues in Grand Rapids Public Schools always spoke with admiration of Margaret’s tenacious drive to teach her students to read, as well as to provide them with enriching opportunities. She gave freely of her time, talents and love. After a successful teaching career of 33 ½ years Margaret retired from Grand Rapids Public Schools. Margaret devoted herself to being a proud grandmother, aunt, mother, wife and friend.  She will be sorely missed by all who came to know and love her!

Margaret was called to be with the Lord on February 3rd, 2022. She is survived by her loving husband, Jack; son Adam; and daughter, Molly (Del) of Grand Rapids; and two grandchildren, Elena and Scott. She was preceded in death by her father, Ray Dornbusch; mother, Greta Nicholas; and daughter, Melissa. God truly blessed all who knew Margaret Kroon. May we follow her example and love generously each day.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 7 at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546  from 5-7pm.  A memorial service will take place on Tuesday, February 8 at Blessed Sacrament Church, 2275 Diamond Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 at 11am. The family will be present to visit with friends and family starting at 10am.  In lieu of flowers please send donations to Hospice of Michigan, or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.