Lois Phelps

When reflecting on the life of Lois M. Phelps, words such as generous, selfless and devotion come to mind, yet it will be her unending love for her family that will be her lasting legacy. With the love of her life by her side for nearly 52 years, Lois witnessed her family tree blossom to include the branches of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, who put immeasurable joy in her heart. Lois was a very independent woman who, through her love, hard work and devout faith, provided a strong and benevolent foundation for her family.

The Roaring Twenties was a fantastic period in our nation’s history, when the sounds of progress could be heard in every village and city across America. It was the birthplace of Jazz, the golden age of industry and above all, a time of plenty. For Albert and Catherin (Sipple) Doezema of Grand Rapids, Michigan, it was a time of great celebration as they welcomed the birth of their beautiful daughter, Lois, on July 6, 1926. The youngest of two children, Lois and her older brother, Albert Jr., grew up in Comstock Park and attended the area schools. Life wasn’t always easy in the Doezema house, and because of this Lois didn’t talk much about her childhood. Yet, she fostered a good relationship with her father.

After graduating from Creston High School, Lois got a job working as an Operator at Bell Telephone. She and her friend spent six months in training in California for this job, before taking their positions in the Grand Rapids office. Soon after, Lois met the love of her life, Charles Phelps, while roller skating at the local rink. He was 10 years older than her, but love knows no bounds. The two fell hopelessly in love and were married on June 3, 1947. Charles brought more than just his love into Lois’ life though; he was a devout Christian and helped Lois find faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. From that time on, they were faithful members of the Sunshine Community Church, attending every Sunday service (both morning and evening), and when the church moved locations, they followed. When their family grew to include three children, Mike, Susan and Mitch, Lois worked hard to instill in them her strong Christian values, not just by her words, but through her example.

Lois was a devoted wife and mother, who created a home where love was plentiful - not to mention very, very clean. She was meticulous when it came to cleaning the house, and she kept everything organized and running smoothly. Lois stayed home with the children for several years, but eventually returned to working part-time at the telephone company. She also worked for a few years in the mailroom at Calvin College along with her husband, Charles. They really didn’t travel much when the kids were growing up – Lois simply enjoyed the comforts of her own home. However, they did love spending time at their getaway on Big Lake in Shelbyville, Michigan, making wonderful memories with their children and grandchildren.

Charles and Lois lived in their home on Mason Street NE for many years, but as they became empty nesters, they moved to a condominium and even began spending winters in sunny Florida. Sadly, Lois lost her beloved husband Charles in 1999, after 52 years together. Always very independent and private, Lois did not ever want to become a burden to her children, so a few years after Charles passed away, she decided to move to Villa Maria, a quiet retirement community in Grand Rapids. She settled in nicely, and quickly made many new friends among the residents. Her dry sense of humor became even more pronounced in her later years, and never failed to make others laugh. As always, her home was always sparkling and welcoming to everyone who came to visit, and she especially enjoyed the companionship of her cat, Sophie. Sharp as a whip, Lois liked to keep up on the world, reading the newspaper and Reader’s Digest. Just a few months ago, her health began to decline and she moved to Rose Garden Homes, where she received the extra care she needed.

Throughout her life, Lois considered her family to be her greatest gift and blessing. There wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do to help her loved ones, though she never interfered unless asked. With a selfless heart that was as endless as the ocean is blue, Lois’ legacy of love and dedication leaves her loved ones with wonderful memories and a strong Christian foundation to look to for comfort.

Mrs. Lois M. Phelps, age 87, of Grandville, MI went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles, in 1999, and her brother, Albert Edwin Doezema. Lois is survived by her children: Mike and Sharron Phelps, Susan and Gary Roode, Mitch Phelps; grandchildren: Kyle (Jennifer) Phelps, April (Chris) Borchert, Karissa (David) Klyn, Krista (Scott) Mulder, Kimberly (Mike) Sherwood, Charles Phelps, Simon (Lindsey) Phelps, Levi Phelps and Garrett Phelps; and 12 great grandchildren; sisters-n-law, Betty Doezema and Marilyn (Joe) Piatt.

Her funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2014, at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW, where friends may visit with her family on Wednesday, April 23, from 6-8 p.m. and on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the service. Interment in Blythefield Cemetery. For those who wish, memorial contributions to either Faith Hospice, New Community Church or Rose Garden Homes are appreciated. To read more about her life, to share a memory or to sign the guestbook, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.