Mary “Kay” Katherine Westerhuis (Boersma)
On the afternoon of Tuesday, January 24, 2023, Mary passed away peacefully from complications of a recent surgery. Mary was surrounded by family at UM Health-West Metro Hospital in Grand Rapids MI at the time of her passing. Mary was 78 years old.
Mary Westerhuis was born in Detroit, Michigan on Wednesday, May 17, 1944. She was adopted as the second child, first daughter of Dr. Donald & Marie Boersma of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
She married her longtime friend and love, James Lee Westerhuis, on December 22, 1960, and moved to California for Jim’s service in the United States Marine Corp. While in California, they welcomed their first son, James Dean. At the conclusion of Jim’s service to our country, they moved back to Grand Rapids and welcomed their second son, John Lee and their daughter, Lynda Dee.
Mary cared deeply for her family. She did this not out of obligation, but because of who she was. Mary was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Grandma. Mary had an energetic personality and always made people around her laugh which she did often as the “humor bone” of the family. She made friends everywhere she went; when people met Mary, they had no idea that they were making a new friend.
Mary’s caring personality was infectious and touched those with whom she came in contact. From attending to a total-care daughter, working a long-term care facility, volunteering for the greater good of numerous charitable organizations, Mary never once put herself first. In short, Mary was a “giver” and never sought to be recognized for her efforts.
Mary Westerhuis was greeted in heaven by her parents, Dr. Donald and Marie Boersma; her brothers Jack Boersma and Steve Boersma; and her daughter, Lynda Dee Westerhuis. Those that know Mary know she is either enjoying a sunset on a fine white sand beach; or walking, hand in hand and chatting with her daughter, Lynda Dee in a beautiful park.
Mary is survived by her cherished husband, James Lee Westerhuis; sons Jim & Johanna Westerhuis and John & Ann Marie Westerhuis; adored grandchildren, Henry & Jennifer Westerhuis, KayLee Westerhuis & Kolin Morgan and Grace Westerhuis; and great grandson Hollis (Ollie) Westerhuis. Dear sister of Nancy & Dr. Carl Andrews and Karel & Lynda Boersma. Mary is also survived by her sister-in-law Kathy & Dave Fagre; and many nieces and nephews, and many friends.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of Mary’s support of charitable organizations, if you feel so inclined, please donate to a charity of your choosing in Mary’s name; she would be honored.
A casual celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 1 at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd, SE, Grand Rapids MI 49546. Visitation will be from 2:00 – 4:00 pm and a brief service will be held at 4:00 pm.
7 Responses
Mary was a dpecial friend to me and i will greatly miss her and the fun girls day out she hosted we had many good times at tasting parties of different branfs of alchohol i know her friends will remember that night so here is to Mary and let her celebrate i heaven eith the many GVCA friends who are waiting to vreet her RIP my friend
Mary was a special friend to all who knew and loved her. We have so many wonderful memories of Corvette trips, days at Lake Michigan, parties, dinners and just hanging out with Jim and Mary. She was the best of the best, and we’ll carry her friendship in our hearts forever. Char and Denny Link
I met Jim and Mary about 40 years ago after I moved back from Colorado. Our GVCA meeting place was not available at the last minute and Jim and Mary graciously had us come to their condo not far away by Eastbrook mall. That’s rolling with the flow I’ll say! We have not seen her too much during Covid days but had a few pops with the gang at the Legion in Mackinaw city and on our deck here nearRanch Rudolph, Traverse City. I’ll miss you girl. See you on the other side.
Remembering the fun times, and her great smiles, RIP Mary. Our thoughts and prayers going out Jim and your family.
Jim- Sending our heart-felt sympathies and prayers for God’s comfort to you and the family during this difficult time. Mary will be deeply missed.
Only getting to meet her a handful of times, she stunned me every time ❤️ A statuesque beauty and so much fun! A wonderful mom & grandma! I was lucky enough to work with her son and grandkids for many years ????✨
The world has suffered a great loss in Mary’s passing. She lit up every room she entered. Thank you for befriending my parents and getting them to embrace life. I was honored to have the privilege to know you. You brought out the best in everyone. Rest in Peace sweet Mary.