Karen Esther Brinks, age 85, went to be with her Lord Jesus Christ on Sunday, July 6, 2025. She was born in Grtand Rapids, MI on May 15, 1940 to the late Albert and Esther VanderBand. Karen was a devoted mother and wife. She had a beautiful smile, a quick wit, and a fun loving spirit that made her a friend to many. Karen was a member of Faith Reformed Church, and enjoyed gardening, reading and spending time with her family. She was a volunteer at Blodgett Hospital for many years, and will be greatly missed.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Lynne Cleveringa and her nephew John Snyder II. She is survived by her beloved husband of 65 years, Melvin Brinks; her four children, Kimberly (Joe) Kieke, Jodie (Brian) Root, Melanie (Bruce) Sheldon, and Lance (Heather) Brinks; 13 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; her siblings, Phyllis Rose and Bruce (Judy) VanderBand; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Karen's life will be held on Friday July 11, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Visitation will be from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday July 10, 2025 at Zaagman's.

Memorial contributions are requested to the Greater Michigan Alzheimer's Association, www.alz.org/gmc.