Mary Joan (Kolenda) Ottenwess's obituary , Passed away on July 12, 2025 in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Mary Joan (Kolenda) Ottenwess

July 4, 1945 - July 12, 2025 (80 years old)

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Mary Joan (Kolenda) Ottenwess's obituary , Passed away on July 12, 2025 in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Funeral arrangement under the care of
Arsulowicz Brothers Mortuaries

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Mary Joan (Kolenda) Ottenwess

July 4, 1945 - July 12, 2025 (80 years old)

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Mary Joan (Kolenda) Ottenwess Obituary

With profound sadness, we say goodbye to Mary Joan (Kolenda) Ottenwess (Grand Rapids, Michigan), whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of many. Mary Joan left this world on July 12, 2025 at the age of 80, leaving a void in the lives of so many people. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family. You may also light a candle in honor of Mary Joan (Kolenda) Ottenwess or send a beautiful flower arrangement to the funeral service.

In the sacred silence of farewell, Mary Joan is released into the embrace of eternity, knowing that her light will continue to shine brightly in the tapestry of the lives of her loved ones. And as her memory is carried forward, may comfort be found in the knowledge that love is eternal, and that Mary Joan's spirit lives on in the beauty that surrounds us.

She was predeceased by: her husband Chuck. She is survived by: her children, Kim Burke, Deb Kasperlik (Jim) and Chris Ottenwess (Heather); her sisters, Diane Howald of Baton Rouge, LA and Maureen Zalewski of Shelbyville, MI; and her in-laws, Paul Ottenwess (Thelma), Jack Ottenwess (Laura) and Loretta Ottenwess. She is also survived by 9 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren.

Visitation was held on Friday, July 18th 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Remembrance Reformed Church (4575 Remembrance Rd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534). A celebration of life was held on Friday, July 18th 2025 at 11:00 AM at the same location.

Funeral arrangement under the care of
Arsulowicz Brothers Mortuaries



Fri

July 18

Visitation

Remembrance Reformed Church
4575 Remembrance Rd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534

Fri

July 18

Celebration of life

Remembrance Reformed Church
4575 Remembrance Rd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534

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Sympathy messages

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4 people wrote a message from the heart

500 CHARACTERS

Words of sympathy

July 16, 2025

Kelly Planting wrote a sympathy message

“Our deepest condolences to Joan’s family. We had many great times with Joan at SanLan. We have wonderful memories of her playing games and calling people funny names. We will miss her. Casey (the Aardvark) and Kelly Planting”


500 CHARACTERS

Words of sympathy

July 14, 2025

Cecil Stanley wrote a sympathy message

“Words cannot express how sorry we are to hear of Joan's passing. She was a wonderful friend full of fun and energy and we had so much fun with Joan and Chuck in Florida. Our deepest condolences to the whole family. Elaine and Cecil Stanley”


500 CHARACTERS

Words of sympathy

July 14, 2025

Joe Brinkman wrote a sympathy message

“Irene and Joe Brinkman send the family a very heartfelt condolence for the loss of Joan. The world was a brighter place with her on board, and an empty spot will now exist.”


500 CHARACTERS

Words of sympathy

July 14, 2025

John Planting wrote a sympathy message

“On behalf of my parents, John and Mary Planting, I want to share our deepest sympathies with the family of Joan. Chuck and Joan were more than just friends—they were like family during the wonderful years spent together at Sanlan Park in Florida. The laughter, stories, and special moments they shared are memories my parents will always treasure. Joan’s warmth, kindness, and spirit will never be forgotten. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. John”


500 CHARACTERS

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