Nellie Stinebower
Apr 12th 1925 - Jul 1st 2010
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John B Hills
July 18th 2010
To Scott, especially - I met your mom in Dr Henderson's office, when our boys were young - I met her again, when I officiated at your marriage to Mary Hickey - I met your mom again at Alanon meetings, where her practical wisdom & rare experience helped me (and many others) - She lived a grand and generous life! - best that you and I try to do the same (at least the generous bit)! - My regards to you and your entire family, Scott! - John Hills
Laurie Roberts
July 14th 2010
I worked with Nellie at D&W pharmacy. I was shocked to read the tribune online and see that Nellie had passed away. To Max, Janie, Jessie and Scott, my deepest sympathy to all of you. Nellie had a great spirit and we had lots of laughs together. Grand Haven will not be the same without Nellie Stinebower.
Randy
July 12th 2010
Hello Max & Family,
I am profoundly touched and saddened by your loss of Nellie.
Someone at one of those Al Anon meetings once said, "It's not the passing on of the ones we love that hurts so deeply, as that is the grandest voyage of all, but the empty we find in ourselves now that she's gone." Max, that is one big wonderful empty.
I will always miss the coffee pot that was always on, and I only wish my daughter could have had the pleasure of Nellies cookies... second only to the love she gave.
My heartfelt sympathies to you.
Randy Kroes
Shirley Reetz
July 11th 2010
Wow Nelle, so many memories we had to share. Through the worst of times and the best of times. Your sense of humor always helped to make things better. I've loved your cute stories and always a new joke to share.
We've been best friends for over thirty years, and I cannot believe those years have just flown on by. I miss you very much, but you have left a lasting impression on me, one for the best. I will try to remember all your favorite little sayings that would cheer me and everyone up.
Rest in peace, Dear Friend. You have earned it.
Love you, Shirley
Laura Hartwick
July 10th 2010
We all loved my Aunt Nellie, my father Robert's sister.
You were always guaranteed to have fun when she was around. Even the birthday cards she sent to Virginia were funny. It was the high point of summer to visit Grand
Haven and swim in Lake Michigan. Your whole family was so nice to us and I was in awe of you all because you were so good looking and cool. I also remember playing with you cousins on Grandma's farm, and get-togethers in Elsie.
Aunt Nellie was just a pleasure to be near, always. You would never know she had a care in the world because she was so gracious and pleasant to everyone. I am sorry for your loss and I wish you all the best.
David Hartwick
July 10th 2010
Max, Scott, Janie, Jesse,
I remember how much love Dad (Uncle Bob) felt for her because of how fondly he spoke of her. He once told of how she talked about taking the Old Pontiac out for a spin and how she had it up to 96mph but she was afraid to go any faster because it was shaking. Dad told me about her buzzing the farm in her barnstorming days. We never got to spend enough time there, but I recall the times were great. She had a wonderful sense of humor even when Dad recalled the way he teased her with " Who hit Nelle in the belly with a flounder?" She laughed so easily and joked so well. We will all miss her.
Love to all, David
Thomas Spoelman, R.Ph.
July 8th 2010
I had the pleasure of working with Nellie at D&W Pharmacy for a few years and she was a joy to work with. She dealt with all the customers by joking, smiling, talking and just plain being nice and respectful. She really helped our business grow with her outstanding service. Her and Max were such a cute couple, always in a great mood and always so friendly. Nellie was really missed when she retired from here and now she will be even more missed by her family I am sure. She is a great person with a great spirit.
Tom Spoelman
Vreonica Adame
July 8th 2010
I wish to convay my sympathy to the family, and to tell them how lucky they were to have such a great lady for thier mom. Max I know how much you will miss her, you two were always an inspiration to me. You always took time to talk when any one needed to. I will miss you soo much. Much love Veronica.
Joan Krueger
July 8th 2010
My condolances to the family. Knew Nellie from the Alono Club...She will be missed. Rest in peace friend!
Sincerely, Joan
Janet & Ken Swanson
July 8th 2010
Dear Max & family, Life certainly won't be the same without Nelle (Aunt Nelle as I fondly called her). It was fortunate when family moved to Grand Haven and we would often visit the house on the hill and enjoy the beach. My mother (Reatha Gillis Maynard) told how she helped Nelle with her coat when she visited the Fenmore School when my mother was also a young girl; then our daughter would marry into the family and we would have more fun memories. We will miss the homemade cookies and coffee as we reminisced. We pray the good memories will carry you through these days. When Nelle was part of the group, it was always much more fun! Most recently, her smile told the story of her love for all and her words of caring will not be forgotten.
Janet & Ken Swanson
Sara Sturgill
July 8th 2010
To Grandma Nellie-
Its been sometime since we saw each other last, but your smile and kindness is still very close to me. I was so young when we'd spend days together at your house by the beach. Unlike other babysitters, you wouldnt leave me to play by myself.
We'd spend quality time together, just you and I.
We'd play Mother Maid, and Memory, and Tick-Tack-Toe. And I'd chase Boots the cat around, while you made peanut butter cookies.
You didn't treat me like a child, you treated me like your grandchild and gave me love and confidence when I needed it the most. Thank you for being a part of my life and leaving your mark on my heart, I love you and miss you.
Sara Joy
Tom Fullerton
July 7th 2010
Max and Family, I remember when I was sick as a little boy Nellie always made me feel so much better. It must have been her caring, gentle, spirit. She just gave me a warm and fuzzy sense that she cared so much for me and that I was going to be ok. I thought of her as a wonderful "nurse". Having all of you as next-door neighbors on Henley Drive was great; especially playing cowboys and indians with Scott and his front lawn Tepee. And his hot sister, Jesse.
Kathy Coffey
July 7th 2010
Nellie was an amazing woman of great wisdom who impacted the lives of countless individuals. She had many profound, yet simple sayings! My favorite was "rise above it!" I hope your dear memories will bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Sue Sturgill
July 7th 2010
Max, Janie, Jessie, And Scott,
Grandma Nellie my kids call her. She was always there with her great hugs and cookies! I hope one of you girls found out how to make her pie crust!
Nellie was one of the most honest, supportive, stubborn, loving people I have ever had the privilege to love. One of my favorite Nellie jokes was about marriage. When asked if she ever considered divorce in her long married life, she would thoughtfully answer, "Divorce, no.....murder, yes!" It was one of the best things that ever happened to John and me that we found Nellie..... and you to of course, Max. You both enriched our life and supported our growth. Bless you all as you miss her.
Vicki Steiner
July 7th 2010
Janie and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anita
July 7th 2010
To all of Nellie's family - Your wife, mother, grandmother was a wonderful, classy lady. I only met her a few years ago, but she provided encouraging words and set such a great example for me. I will miss seeing her and hearing her stories, but have many "sayings" that will stay with me for a lifetime. My thoughts and prayers are will you all.
David Jachim
July 7th 2010
Nellie definitely made a positive impact in my life. She was my nurse at my pediatricians office back in the 1960's. We met later in life when I became friends with Max in the early 80s. She had a wonderful sense of humor and a compasionate side I will always remember. I remember when I moved to San Diego in 1992, I was not there a month and Nellie and Max sent me a framed picture of a Lake Michigan sunset taken from there back deck, they were concerned that I would miss the Lake. I will miss Nellie, but she brought so much joy to so many people. I am sure we will see each other in Heaven.
Mary Fullerton and Family--
July 7th 2010
Max, Scott, Janie and Jesse, I have so many fond memories of Nellie, especially when you all lived right next door to us "on the hill". Always baking and sharing all the best of her many treats. Roasting a whole sleeve of bolonga! Never had heard of ever doing that, and it was really special... She also would get up before dawn and go out to the channel and FISH!! One time, I had the pleasure of going with her!! I am sure Nellie and Tom will have some great times in the hereafter. WOW.. That will be quite a party!! Yes, she was one of a kind.. Blessed by all of her 85 years!
Donna Anderson
July 6th 2010
To the family of Nellie, I will miss Nellie very much. She and I had many special talks. We were very fond of each other. I did her hair every week for many years and enjoyed seeing her each week. She would also bring her special cookies, which were the best! She was a fun,caring and a very special women. With Sympathy , Donna
Will Beaton
July 6th 2010
Dear Max, Janie, Scott and Jesse,
Words can't describe how much your wife/mom meant to me. I will always remember her words of wisdom, smile and stubbornness. She was a woman ahead of her time, and I loved her story about how her dad got mad "when she buzzed the barn with her single engine prop"!
Nellie will be dearly missed,
Will
Anne & Martin Riepma
July 5th 2010
Jesse and Scott, Martin and I are so sorry to hear about your mom. I remember her as being such a sweet lady, always welcoming your friends to your home. How blessed she was to have all of her children close to her. Please know that you all are in our thoughts at this difficult time.
Renee Jones
July 5th 2010
Dear Scott, Jesse, Janie, Max.
It is so hard to lose a parent. The memories, will/do sustain you. I loved Nellie dearly, she was such a women of strenth, lived her life to its fullest and the best cook around. I have so many wonderful memories, warm cookies, her smile, sunsets on the deck, she always called me a beach bum! Heres hugs for you all and know that you are all in my prayers through this bittersweet time. Love, Renee'
Mary
July 5th 2010
I will fondly remember Nellie and her grand sense of humor! I still place out a pillow she purchased for me at Christmas. It simply says, Nellie fashion, "Be Naught, Save Santa the Trip."
Dan Sullivan
July 5th 2010
Scott - very sorry to hear of your mother's passing, and sorry for the family's loss. This is a difficult time for you and your family, and I wanted you to know we'll remember you in our thoughts, and ask that guidance, courage and wisdom be sent to you, to help navigate your way through. Be well, and hope you are still "Hanging Ten" whenever you can.
Best regards to you, and to your father and sisters,
Dan Sullivan
jan boomgaard smart
July 4th 2010
i knew nellie when she worked for the pedatic doctors and i worked for the internist just a few doors away
nellie was a great lady who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her
my sympathy and prayers to all of you love and prayers jan smart
Lorinne James
July 3rd 2010
Thanks for all of the good times, Nellie, with you and your family. You always made us welcome in your home, and you will really be missed. My love, thoughts and sympathy are with your family.
Mary Lubbers
July 2nd 2010
Oh Jesse! I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts are with you hoping you will find the peace and strength to make it through this!
Ruth McCaleb
July 2nd 2010
Nellie you will be dearly missed. I know how much you ment to my son Nathan. You have touched so many people. I am very thankfu to have known both you and Max. Nathan will miss his cookies and all the laughs he had with the two of you. Rest in peace sweetie!
John B Hills
July 18th 2010
To Scott, especially - I met your mom in Dr Henderson's office, when our boys were young - I met her again, when I officiated at your marriage to Mary Hickey - I met your mom again at Alanon meetings, where her practical wisdom & rare experience helped me (and many others) - She lived a grand and generous life! - best that you and I try to do the same (at least the generous bit)! - My regards to you and your entire family, Scott! - John Hills
Laurie Roberts
July 14th 2010
I worked with Nellie at D&W pharmacy. I was shocked to read the tribune online and see that Nellie had passed away. To Max, Janie, Jessie and Scott, my deepest sympathy to all of you. Nellie had a great spirit and we had lots of laughs together. Grand Haven will not be the same without Nellie Stinebower.
Randy
July 12th 2010
Hello Max & Family,
I am profoundly touched and saddened by your loss of Nellie.
Someone at one of those Al Anon meetings once said, "It's not the passing on of the ones we love that hurts so deeply, as that is the grandest voyage of all, but the empty we find in ourselves now that she's gone." Max, that is one big wonderful empty.
I will always miss the coffee pot that was always on, and I only wish my daughter could have had the pleasure of Nellies cookies... second only to the love she gave.
My heartfelt sympathies to you.
Randy Kroes
Shirley Reetz
July 11th 2010
Wow Nelle, so many memories we had to share. Through the worst of times and the best of times. Your sense of humor always helped to make things better. I've loved your cute stories and always a new joke to share.
We've been best friends for over thirty years, and I cannot believe those years have just flown on by. I miss you very much, but you have left a lasting impression on me, one for the best. I will try to remember all your favorite little sayings that would cheer me and everyone up.
Rest in peace, Dear Friend. You have earned it.
Love you, Shirley
Laura Hartwick
July 10th 2010
We all loved my Aunt Nellie, my father Robert's sister.
You were always guaranteed to have fun when she was around. Even the birthday cards she sent to Virginia were funny. It was the high point of summer to visit Grand
Haven and swim in Lake Michigan. Your whole family was so nice to us and I was in awe of you all because you were so good looking and cool. I also remember playing with you cousins on Grandma's farm, and get-togethers in Elsie.
Aunt Nellie was just a pleasure to be near, always. You would never know she had a care in the world because she was so gracious and pleasant to everyone. I am sorry for your loss and I wish you all the best.
David Hartwick
July 10th 2010
Max, Scott, Janie, Jesse,
I remember how much love Dad (Uncle Bob) felt for her because of how fondly he spoke of her. He once told of how she talked about taking the Old Pontiac out for a spin and how she had it up to 96mph but she was afraid to go any faster because it was shaking. Dad told me about her buzzing the farm in her barnstorming days. We never got to spend enough time there, but I recall the times were great. She had a wonderful sense of humor even when Dad recalled the way he teased her with " Who hit Nelle in the belly with a flounder?" She laughed so easily and joked so well. We will all miss her.
Love to all, David
Thomas Spoelman, R.Ph.
July 8th 2010
I had the pleasure of working with Nellie at D&W Pharmacy for a few years and she was a joy to work with. She dealt with all the customers by joking, smiling, talking and just plain being nice and respectful. She really helped our business grow with her outstanding service. Her and Max were such a cute couple, always in a great mood and always so friendly. Nellie was really missed when she retired from here and now she will be even more missed by her family I am sure. She is a great person with a great spirit.
Tom Spoelman
Vreonica Adame
July 8th 2010
I wish to convay my sympathy to the family, and to tell them how lucky they were to have such a great lady for thier mom. Max I know how much you will miss her, you two were always an inspiration to me. You always took time to talk when any one needed to. I will miss you soo much. Much love Veronica.
Joan Krueger
July 8th 2010
My condolances to the family. Knew Nellie from the Alono Club...She will be missed. Rest in peace friend!
Sincerely, Joan
Janet & Ken Swanson
July 8th 2010
Dear Max & family, Life certainly won't be the same without Nelle (Aunt Nelle as I fondly called her). It was fortunate when family moved to Grand Haven and we would often visit the house on the hill and enjoy the beach. My mother (Reatha Gillis Maynard) told how she helped Nelle with her coat when she visited the Fenmore School when my mother was also a young girl; then our daughter would marry into the family and we would have more fun memories. We will miss the homemade cookies and coffee as we reminisced. We pray the good memories will carry you through these days. When Nelle was part of the group, it was always much more fun! Most recently, her smile told the story of her love for all and her words of caring will not be forgotten.
Janet & Ken Swanson
Sara Sturgill
July 8th 2010
To Grandma Nellie-
Its been sometime since we saw each other last, but your smile and kindness is still very close to me. I was so young when we'd spend days together at your house by the beach. Unlike other babysitters, you wouldnt leave me to play by myself.
We'd spend quality time together, just you and I.
We'd play Mother Maid, and Memory, and Tick-Tack-Toe. And I'd chase Boots the cat around, while you made peanut butter cookies.
You didn't treat me like a child, you treated me like your grandchild and gave me love and confidence when I needed it the most. Thank you for being a part of my life and leaving your mark on my heart, I love you and miss you.
Sara Joy
Tom Fullerton
July 7th 2010
Max and Family, I remember when I was sick as a little boy Nellie always made me feel so much better. It must have been her caring, gentle, spirit. She just gave me a warm and fuzzy sense that she cared so much for me and that I was going to be ok. I thought of her as a wonderful "nurse". Having all of you as next-door neighbors on Henley Drive was great; especially playing cowboys and indians with Scott and his front lawn Tepee. And his hot sister, Jesse.
Kathy Coffey
July 7th 2010
Nellie was an amazing woman of great wisdom who impacted the lives of countless individuals. She had many profound, yet simple sayings! My favorite was "rise above it!" I hope your dear memories will bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Sue Sturgill
July 7th 2010
Max, Janie, Jessie, And Scott,
Grandma Nellie my kids call her. She was always there with her great hugs and cookies! I hope one of you girls found out how to make her pie crust!
Nellie was one of the most honest, supportive, stubborn, loving people I have ever had the privilege to love. One of my favorite Nellie jokes was about marriage. When asked if she ever considered divorce in her long married life, she would thoughtfully answer, "Divorce, no.....murder, yes!" It was one of the best things that ever happened to John and me that we found Nellie..... and you to of course, Max. You both enriched our life and supported our growth. Bless you all as you miss her.
Vicki Steiner
July 7th 2010
Janie and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anita
July 7th 2010
To all of Nellie's family - Your wife, mother, grandmother was a wonderful, classy lady. I only met her a few years ago, but she provided encouraging words and set such a great example for me. I will miss seeing her and hearing her stories, but have many "sayings" that will stay with me for a lifetime. My thoughts and prayers are will you all.
David Jachim
July 7th 2010
Nellie definitely made a positive impact in my life. She was my nurse at my pediatricians office back in the 1960's. We met later in life when I became friends with Max in the early 80s. She had a wonderful sense of humor and a compasionate side I will always remember. I remember when I moved to San Diego in 1992, I was not there a month and Nellie and Max sent me a framed picture of a Lake Michigan sunset taken from there back deck, they were concerned that I would miss the Lake. I will miss Nellie, but she brought so much joy to so many people. I am sure we will see each other in Heaven.
Mary Fullerton and Family--
July 7th 2010
Max, Scott, Janie and Jesse, I have so many fond memories of Nellie, especially when you all lived right next door to us "on the hill". Always baking and sharing all the best of her many treats. Roasting a whole sleeve of bolonga! Never had heard of ever doing that, and it was really special... She also would get up before dawn and go out to the channel and FISH!! One time, I had the pleasure of going with her!! I am sure Nellie and Tom will have some great times in the hereafter. WOW.. That will be quite a party!! Yes, she was one of a kind.. Blessed by all of her 85 years!
Donna Anderson
July 6th 2010
To the family of Nellie, I will miss Nellie very much. She and I had many special talks. We were very fond of each other. I did her hair every week for many years and enjoyed seeing her each week. She would also bring her special cookies, which were the best! She was a fun,caring and a very special women. With Sympathy , Donna
Will Beaton
July 6th 2010
Dear Max, Janie, Scott and Jesse,
Words can't describe how much your wife/mom meant to me. I will always remember her words of wisdom, smile and stubbornness. She was a woman ahead of her time, and I loved her story about how her dad got mad "when she buzzed the barn with her single engine prop"!
Nellie will be dearly missed,
Will
Anne & Martin Riepma
July 5th 2010
Jesse and Scott, Martin and I are so sorry to hear about your mom. I remember her as being such a sweet lady, always welcoming your friends to your home. How blessed she was to have all of her children close to her. Please know that you all are in our thoughts at this difficult time.
Renee Jones
July 5th 2010
Dear Scott, Jesse, Janie, Max.
It is so hard to lose a parent. The memories, will/do sustain you. I loved Nellie dearly, she was such a women of strenth, lived her life to its fullest and the best cook around. I have so many wonderful memories, warm cookies, her smile, sunsets on the deck, she always called me a beach bum! Heres hugs for you all and know that you are all in my prayers through this bittersweet time. Love, Renee'
Mary
July 5th 2010
I will fondly remember Nellie and her grand sense of humor! I still place out a pillow she purchased for me at Christmas. It simply says, Nellie fashion, "Be Naught, Save Santa the Trip."
Dan Sullivan
July 5th 2010
Scott - very sorry to hear of your mother's passing, and sorry for the family's loss. This is a difficult time for you and your family, and I wanted you to know we'll remember you in our thoughts, and ask that guidance, courage and wisdom be sent to you, to help navigate your way through. Be well, and hope you are still "Hanging Ten" whenever you can.
Best regards to you, and to your father and sisters,
Dan Sullivan
jan boomgaard smart
July 4th 2010
i knew nellie when she worked for the pedatic doctors and i worked for the internist just a few doors away
nellie was a great lady who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her
my sympathy and prayers to all of you love and prayers jan smart
Lorinne James
July 3rd 2010
Thanks for all of the good times, Nellie, with you and your family. You always made us welcome in your home, and you will really be missed. My love, thoughts and sympathy are with your family.
Mary Lubbers
July 2nd 2010
Oh Jesse! I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts are with you hoping you will find the peace and strength to make it through this!
Ruth McCaleb
July 2nd 2010
Nellie you will be dearly missed. I know how much you ment to my son Nathan. You have touched so many people. I am very thankfu to have known both you and Max. Nathan will miss his cookies and all the laughs he had with the two of you. Rest in peace sweetie!
