Margaret Marie VanGorp

Margaret Marie VanGorp, 76, of Houghton Lake, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 7, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, Margaret lived a full and vibrant life marked by her passion for family and caring for others.
Margaret was born to Irene Rydzewski and John Lickner. Following the untimely death of her mother in 1958, Margaret was lovingly adopted by Phyllis Rydzewski-Burns and George Burns, who provided a nurturing home and guidance throughout her upbringing.
Margaret attended Chadsey High School in Detroit, graduating with the Class of 1966. She later pursued her passion for justice and helping others by earning an associate degree in Paralegal Studies from Macomb Community College in 1994. Her career as a paralegal spanned several decades, where she was proud to serve at Romain, Kuck & Egerer P.C., and Hess, Brennan & Assoc.
On August 5, 1972, Margaret married Ronald William VanGorp, and together they built a life in the Detroit metropolitan area, raising three wonderful daughters. In their later years, they retired to the peaceful town of Houghton Lake, MI, where they enjoyed their time together until Ronald's passing in February 2022. Though his loss deeply affected Margaret, she carried on with strength and grace, cherishing the memories they shared.
Margaret is survived by her daughters, Jennifer Lynn Koers (Scott Koers) of New Haven, Michigan; Michele Marie VanGorp of Minnetonka, Minnesota; and Heather Renee Buell (Arthur "Bud" Buell) of North Bennington, Vermont. She was grandmother to her cherished grandchildren: Zachary Koers, Nolan Koers, Mason Buell, and Karson Buell.
Margaret was passionate about raising awareness for dyslexia, an issue close to her heart, and she spent her free time enjoying her hobbies of bowling, boating, and fishing. Most of all, she found immense joy in doting on her beloved dogs, Karma and Quinn.
Margaret's love, strength, and humor will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Her legacy will live on in the lives she touched and the family she cherished.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Margaret's honor to the Roscommon County Animal Shelter in Prudenville, MI.
May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.