Maria Sophia DeLugt Kocsis left this earthly realm on Friday, January 10th, 2025 at 2:03 PM, at the age of 81, surrounded by her loving family in her final moments.

Born in The Netherlands, Maria lived through the Nazi occupation during World War II until age seven, when her family immigrated to Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her early life was touched by nobility - as an infant, she was the subject of a portrait painted by a Portuguese princess who had taken refuge with her family. Her father, Henry, was one of the founders of the Dutch Immigrant Society, establishing deep roots that Maria would later honor through her own involvement with the organization.

A brilliant woman of remarkable energy and diverse passions, Maria embraced life with open arms and an adventurous spirit. She followed her adventurous spirit as an accomplished skier, competing in and winning races, archaeological digs, hiking the Alps, whitewater rafting, and road trips to national parks. Her artistic soul found expression through photography, piano sight-reading, and other pursuits like ballroom dancing and oil painting, both of which she briefly taught. Her intellectual curiosity knew no bounds - she was an avid reader of the Bible, history, fiction, and everything in between; and a lover of beauty, finding special inspiration in the works of Ansel Adams and Georgia O'Keeffe.

Maria's profound faith was a cornerstone of her life, as she was an unashamed disciple of Christ who truly engaged everyone with bold, unabashed faith. She served actively in her church through music and various volunteer roles, including as a budget counselor and homeless outreach. Her deep religious convictions never diminished her open-mindedness or her ability to engage thoughtfully with new and unusual ideas, approaching every conversation with genuine interest and respect.

As a successful and relentless realtor, and later bed and breakfast proprietor of her home on Lake Michigan, Maria brought her characteristic energy and dedication to everything she undertook. She helped revitalize the Dutch Immigrant Society, her Dutch heritage remaining strong throughout her life, delighting in sharing her culture with others.

Family was paramount to Maria. She was a loving and dedicated mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, known for her strong values and hospitality, making every moment special. She was a night owl, and always found the time for one more story, one more conversation, and one more adventure. She had countless ideas and dreams, including aspirations to visit and write about the national parks, and embark on mission trips.

Maria was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Liisa. She is lovingly remembered by her son Jon Rupert and his wife Kelly; grandchildren Adam Rush, Zyan Rush, Evan Jackson, Emily Jackson, Landon Rupert, and Benjamin Rupert; sisters Ann DeWindt, Irene Erickson, and Carla VerHage; brother in law Henry Bierling; special niece Tami Crank; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends whose lives she deeply touched. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Krina Vander Zee, Audrey Winters, Henry DeLugt, William DeLugt, Joan Spee, and Pauline Bierling.

Maria's legacy is one of resilience, faith, and an unwavering zest for life. She faced life's challenges with an iron will and refused to let adversity diminish her spirit or her capacity for love and compassion. Her profound impact on those around her will continue to resonate through generations, leaving the world a more beautiful place.

Those wishing to honor Maria's memory are encouraged to embrace life with the same curiosity, faith, and boundless energy that characterized her remarkable journey.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 7, from 2:00 -4:00 PM and 5:00 – 8:00 PM at Zaagman Funeral Home (2800 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546). A Celebration Of Life will be held on Saturday, February 8 at 11:00 AM with visitation prior to the service from 10:00-11:00 AM at Calvary Church in the Chapel (707 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525) followed by a luncheon.