Rose Koning

Rose Ann Koning, age 86, peacefully went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Matthew Koning; brothers, Clarence, Gilbert, Gerrit and John Besselsen. Rose was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose legacy of service, laughter, and love lives on in the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by her children, Amy (Rick) Stygstra, Jocelyn VerLee, Tricia (John) Koning-Llewellyn, and Matthew "Chip" (Jodi) Koning; and lovingly remembered by her nine grandchildren, Ethan (Katie) Stygstra, Kyle (Alexis) Stygstra, Emily Stygstra (and daughter Adeline Rose), Jeremy Stygstra (Elise Kreske), Cash, Opal, and Viola Koning, Maya and Stuart Llewellyn; and her cherished great-granddaughter, Addie. She is also survived by sisters-in-law, Hermie Besselsen, Sandra Colvin, and Glenda Koning; brother-in-law, Chuck (Diane) Koning; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Born to Dutch immigrant parents who came to the U.S. in 1926, Rose was raised in Colton, South Dakota-a small town of 600 that shaped her with a strong sense of community and resilience. In 1957, she left Colton to attend Calvin College in Grand Rapids, MI where she pursued a teaching degree and began forming friendships that would last a lifetime. Throughout her life, Rose nurtured meaningful connections wherever she went-through her church communities of Hope CRC and LaGrave Ave CRC, her neighborhoods, and her many social circles. Her calendar was always full-not out of obligation, but from a deep desire to care for and stay connected with others. Service was at the heart of everything Rose did. She devoted herself to supporting her husband, raising their four children, and loving her nine grandchildren with her whole heart. Known for her quick wit and well-timed humor, she brought joy and laughter to many. Rose also had a remarkable talent for organization and planning, serving as office manager at LaGrave, contributing to her husband's engine business, and hosting countless events and gatherings that brought people together.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 18, beginning at 10:00 AM at LaGrave Avenue CRC, 107 LaGrave Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. A service celebrating Rose's life will follow at 11:00 AM, with Rev. Steigenga and Rev. Boorsma officiating. Interment has taken place at Georgetown Township Cemetery. In memory of Rose, contributions may be made to the LaGrave Ave CRC Benefactors Trust or GraceAdventures.org.