Marian Heerema passed away at 89 years of age on Tuesday, January 3, 2023. She died as she lived – in the full assurance that she belonged to her Savior and Lord Jesus Christ. She was the eighth of nine children born to Andrew and Martha (Ludema) Gelder where she flourished as a member of her family who sought to honor Jesus Christ as the Lord of their home. Music was Marian's second language. She graduated from Calvin College with a major in music, was an excellent pianist and singer, taught music in several schools and sang in church choirs wherever she lived as well as in community choirs in Lansing, MI, Miami, FL, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Seoul, South Korea, Holland, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. She was also a frequent soloist for special events. Marian had a sweet and kind soul and she will be dearly missed by her husband of 64 years, Jacob Heerema; by her son, Rohn (Dawn) Heerema; by her daughter, Lynne Heerema; three grandchildren and five great grandchildren; brother and sisters-in-law, Andy (Madelon) Gelder, and Marilyn Gelder. She was preceded in death by her parents and seven siblings. Relatives and friends may meet with Marian and Jake's family on Monday, January 9 from 10-11 am at Calvin Christian Reformed Church (700 Ethel Ave, SE) with a memorial service starting at 11:00 am, Rev. Rebecca Jordan Heys officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship room after the memorial service. In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial gift to the Calvin Church Family Assistance Ministry.