Marjorie J. Heveker

Fiercely independent and blessed with a quiet strength, Marjorie Heveker was a woman who always stood up for what she believed in. One of her deepest beliefs was the greatness of this country, and our duty as Americans to defend those rights for which so many have fought and died. Not only did Marjorie serve in the military during WWII, she supported the troops through civic activism throughout her entire life. She was also devoted to her beloved family, and spent her life caring for those she loved. Marjorie’s commitment, energy, and strength will live on in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing this remarkable lady, both as a cherished memory and a source of inspiration in the years to come.

In the United States, the 1920s were a time of economic prosperity and changing social values, including new rights for women, the popularization of radio, and increasing consumerism. Marjorie was born in the first year of this exciting decade, on January 20, 1920, and shared her birth year with invention of the parachute, women’s suffrage, and the institution of prohibition.

Marjorie’s proud parents, Garrett and Catherine (Wieland) Oosterhof, brought the newest member of their family home to Grand Rapids, Michigan. One of seven children, Marjorie grew up with siblings Mary, Esther, Kathleen, Henry, Franklin, and Norman. As a child, one of Marjorie’s favorite activities was roller-skating, and she could often be spotted having fun at the roller rink.

After graduating from Grand Rapids Senior High School in 1938, Marjorie went on to study education at Calvin College for two years. Her first job out of school was with Auto Owners Insurance, where she worked until 1943. At this time, Marjorie joined the Army, and served as one of the first members of the Women’s Army Corps. During her 3 years of service, Marjorie trained in clerical and librarian skills, and also found time to become a dental hygienist and surgical technician. She used her new skills in a nursing capacity, and ministered to soldiers injured in the course of WWII.

Back home in Michigan after the war, Marjorie found a position as a dental hygienist. Later, she would go on to work for Purity Cylinder and Gas. A proud veteran, one of Marjorie’s first actions back home was to become involved in the American Legion. One day at a convention, Marjorie met a young man named Charles Heveker, also a veteran. Charles and Marjorie’s friendship soon deepened into love, and the happy couple was married on February 27, 1955.

As Marjorie and Charles settled into married life, it wasn’t long before they were blessed with a daughter, Diane. They moved into their dream home in 1958, a house they built themselves in the midst of an orchard on Thomas Street. The backdrop of countless happy memories, Marjorie and Charles would live in this house for the rest of their lives. Marjorie was a meticulous housekeeper, and a wonderful cook. As her family says, “she canned everything that could be canned!” Fruit, veggies, meats, and jams all found their way into Marjorie’s delicious concoctions – one family favorite was her special lime pickles. For vacations, Marjorie and her family enjoyed camping together in the great outdoors, and that continued well into her 80’s.

Marjorie had a deep commitment to her community, and spent much of her time volunteering at local organizations. She was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans of William Smith Jr. Post, a charter member of the Women’s Memorial, and a member of the American Legion Post #127 – Dorr. In fact, Marjorie was the first female Post Commander for the American Legion Post #250, a huge honor. She would get her whole family involved in the group’s activities – Diane remembers being recruited to sell poppies to support the Legion. While Diane was in school, Marjorie and Charles were both very active in the Plainwell schools, and earned recognition for their support of the athletic boosters. Marjorie also belonged to the Gun River Conservation Club.

More recently, Marjorie was delighted to become a grandmother to her one and only grandchild, Brandon. She supported his wish to join the Army, and proudly displayed her blue star banner in support of his travels overseas. Marjorie looked forward to trips with her daughter to Louisville, Kentucky, as well as to the National Young Bird Show where Diane showed her doves.

Sadly, Marjorie’s beloved husband Charles passed away in 1999. She found the strength to go on through her family and her faith, and attending the Plainwell Presbyterian Church.

Quiet, independent, and hardworking, Marjorie was a staunch patriot, a devoted wife, a loving mother and grandmother, and a loyal friend. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her many friends and family members.

Mrs. Marjorie L. Heveker died on May 17, 2013, at the age of 93. Marjorie’s family includes her daughter and favorite son-in-law, Diane & Bob Schuler; her grandson, Brandon (Margaret) Schuler; her great-grandson, Eric Logan; her sister, Kathleen Hart, and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles E. “Red” Heveker.

Visit with Marjorie’s family and friends from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21, and from 1 to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, at Life Story Funeral Homes, Plainwell; 120 S. Woodhams (685-5881), where a funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday. Interment with full military honors will follow at Hillside Cemetery. After internment a luncheon will follow at the Plainwell Presbyterian Church, 303 E. Bridge Street. Memorial donations may be made to Disabled American Veterans or the Plainwell Presbyterian Church. Please visit Marjorie’s personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can learn more about her life, share a favorite memory or photo, and sign the online guestbook.