It’s impossible to describe the loss of someone who initiated so much for so many families. The impact Olivia had on everyone’s life around her, from her own family to her extended family of friends and caregivers, moved each of us to build something better. After an accident changed her life from an active little girl, Olivia worked in her own way to teach, mentor and just ‘be’ a loving, positive presence in the lives and careers of her many friends who in turn, used their experience to move into medical, educational, and other areas of work.
In 2010, her family worked together to design and build Olivia’s Gift, a place where Olivia and five other residents who have similar disabilities, could live, and thrive. Working to ensure Olivia had her own place to live became a passion for her family and grew to include another home and five more residents. She loved her own place and was accepted and loved. Not only will we miss her smiles, love, and ever-present music; we will miss her huge influence to champion better living for all with disabilities.
Olivia passed away Saturday, March 11, 2023. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Marilyn and Bernard Henrickson. Olivia is survived by her dad, Dan Henrickson; her mom, Kelly Saur; sister, Brittany Henrickson; grandparents, Joyce and Ken Kroes; stepmom, Julie Henrickson; step sister, Ashlie (Matthew) Kuiper; stepdad, Chuck Saur; step brothers, Dan Saur, Nick(Kara) Saur; Brittany’s fiance, Vlad Chasnyk; aunts and uncles, Carrie and Doug Graham, Jodi and Brian Stevens, Dave (Barb) Henrickson, Doug (Bonnie) Henrickson, Darrin Henrickson; many cousins and friends, along with special friend, Krissy Boy and her OG family.
A celebration of Olivia’s life will be held at Forest Hills Baptist Church, 3900 Fulton SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Join us for a short service on March 28th at 3pm, then you’re invited to meet with friends and family after. In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Olivia with a donation to Olivia’s Gift, 5040 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.
One Response
So sorry for your loss. What a blessing you and Olivia have been not only to each other but to the families who continue to benefit from Olivia’s gift. Praying for you and your family.