Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1932
DIED
2016
FUNERAL HOME
Erica Minnema Obituary
Haslett
Erica Minnema was born on April 22, 1932 the daughter of Richard and Frederica VandenEngh, and after a long illness, passed away on June 22, surrounded by her family.
Erica was born in Bandung, Indonesia. She went by boat in the 1950's to the Netherlands and by boat again to immigrate to America in 1956 with her husband, Henri. Erica and Henri embraced life in the United States and were proud to be American citizens and able to live the American dream.
She was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather, John Roodestein; husband, Henri Melle Minnema; and a baby girl born in December 1963. Surviving to cherish her memory are her son, Jack (Jean) Minnema; daughter, Iris (Martin) Plowman; grandchildren, Jason (Bob VanCamp) Plowman, Justin (Jennifer) Plowman, Ashley Plowman, Elizabeth Minnema and Emily (Sean Stead) Minnema; sister, Reny Mutter; brother, Dr. Jack VandenEngh (Netherlands); and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.
Per Erica's wishes, no services will be held. The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the caring doctors and nurses at Sparrow Hospital, New Life Assisted Living of Haslett, and Heart to Heart Hospice for being there for Erica and providing wonderful care. For those desiring, contributions may be made in Erica's memory to New Life Assisted Living, 2077 Haslett Rd., Haslett, MI 48840. The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 East Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.greastlansing.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Erica Minnema
Sponsored by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes.
Alfie Kiliaan
July 10, 2024
It's nice to know that Erica is one of my distant relatives. unfortunately I found her when she was already gone. Erica's father (Richard) was the brother of Elly Van den Engh who was the wife of my father's cousin Otto Herman Kiliaan. She is at peace now... deepest condolences to all those left behind... Greeting from Surabaya, Indonesia...
June 28, 2016
Jack I am sorry for your family's loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Teresa Fortino
June 27, 2016
Sending prayers out for Jack and Iris and their families during this time of loss.I am so sorry for your loss. Esther Earley
Donna Brook
June 27, 2016
Dear Jack, Jean, Emily and Lizzy, our thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time! Please accept our heart felt condolences. Love, Donna, Brady, Matt and Joe
June 26, 2016
As an Elder at First Christian Church I have been taking communion to your mom for about 5 years. I have always enjoyed our visit. As soon as I would tell her I was from the church it always triggered wonderful memories. She was a very special lady. Our prayers are with the family for your loss. Carol McAlvey
Martha Smart
June 26, 2016
Jack, Iris and families. I just saw Mom's obituary in today's paper. I am so sorry for your loss. David and I had so many great times during the years that your Dad worked at Auto-Owners and on the trips that we all went on together. David also passed away a little over two years ago. We will always miss these family members, but are thankful for the memories we created together. May God comfort ALL of you as you adjust to this loss. Sincerely, Martha Smart
Fred Meyer
June 26, 2016
I would like to send out my thoughts and prayers to Jack,Jean,Emily,lizzy and extended Minnema family during this dificult time.
Fred,Silvia and Austin
Pamela Cline
June 26, 2016
The Hunter family would like Jack and Iris to know we are praying for you during this difficult time. We have wonderful memories of sharing with your family happier times at First Christian Church in Lansing. May God be near you and your families at this time.
The Tom Hunter family
June 24, 2016
Jack, Jean, Emily, and Lizzy,
The loss of a parent is so very difficult. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. God bless you all.
Dave and Sue Peake
bob Pratt
June 24, 2016
Jack, though I never knew your mother, I have known you a long time. I know she must have been a wonderful woman to raise such a fine man. I'm sorry for your loss.
Cindy Hurst
June 24, 2016
Jack and Jean, and Emily and Lizzy, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. This was a very difficult time for me just one year ago, so your pain is all the more poignant now. Keeping all the Minnemas in my thoughts and prayers, with love.
Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results
Make a Donation
in Erica Minnema's name
Memorial Events
for Erica Minnema
Funeral services provided by:
Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes1730 East Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
How to support Erica's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Erica Minnema's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
