Verna Belle Zeilstra (nee Jabaay) passed away peacefully on September 29, 2023, at the age of 92 in Grand Rapids, MI. She was born on January 25, 1931, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Verna was a loving, kind, selfless, and resourceful woman who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Verna is survived by her devoted husband of 73 years, Donald W Zeilstra; their loving children: Carol Hamilton, Donald J Zeilstra, Steven Zeilstra; as well as her cherished grandchildren: Donald A Zeilstra, Jacob Zeilstra, Joel Hamilton, Katie Kelley, Andrew Zeilstra, and Jenna Dodson. She was also a beloved great-grandmother to seven, and a dear aunt to many nieces and nephews. She cherished her family and was always there to support and guide them throughout their lives.

Verna was preceded in death by her parents Albert and Petronella Jabaay, sister, Lorraine Bouma, and brother, Gerald Jabaay.

Verna enjoyed attending LaGrave Christian Reformed Church, where she found solace and community. She had a deep faith and found comfort in her religious beliefs.

Her favorite job outside the home was as a travel agent at Carlson Wagonlit. In those pre-internet days she relished helping people realize their travel dreams and plans.

In her free time, Verna indulged in various hobbies. She loved to travel and explore new places and cultures, challenged herself with crossword and jigsaw puzzles, and expressed her creativity through crochet, knitting, sewing, and cooking new recipes. These hobbies brought her joy and allowed her to share her talents with loved ones.

A memorial service for Verna will be held at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, located in Grand Rapids, MI on a future date.

Verna Belle Zeilstra will be remembered for her love, kindness, and selflessness. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Express your thoughts, condolences, or a memory at Zaagman.com

A memorial service will take place for Verna at LaGrave Christian Reformed Church on October 18 at 11:15 AM with Chad Boersma officiating.