Esther Murillo

Esther Murillo, age 93, of Holland, passed away on July 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on July 22, 1932, she was a devoted member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. Esther was employed at Donnelly Mirrors until her retirement in 1994, where she worked alongside her husband, Juan, for 30 years.

Esther was so gracious and had a passion for serving others, which she demonstrated from a young age by volunteering at her church. Her warmth and compassion radiated outwards, making everyone around her feel loved and supported. She also had a strong work ethic, and when she wasn’t working, she cherished spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She expressed her unconditional love for her family through hugs, kisses, and home-cooked meals. Family knew they could call her at any time for a delicious meal, with her tacos being a favorite among most.

Not only was Esther a fabulous cook, but she also dedicated many hours to knitting, crocheting, sewing, gardening, and canning fruits and vegetables, while always working full-time PLUS. In her earlier years, she enjoyed sewing clothes for her children, especially for her daughters, which allowed her to dress them in matching outfits for special occasions, while being economical.

We know, mom’s strength and love will continue to live on through all her family. This is her legacy.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Juan Murillo Sr., in 2016; her son, Rogelio Murillo, in 1951; her son, Roberto Murillo, in 1964; and her daughter, Emma Bartell, in 2013.

She is survived by her children, Rosie (Jerry) Corey of Rockford, Juan Murillo, Jr of Holland, Mariana Van Dam of Muskegon, Mary Helen (Craig) Crooks of Ada, Stella (Randy) Tasker of Hudsonville, Yolanda (Randy) DeVries of Holland, Margaret (Phil) Tamminga of Holland, Melissa (Derek) Kronemeyer of Zeeland and Mary Elizabeth (Brian) Mulder of Zeeland; grandchildren, Bobby (Brandon), Gabe, Ashley (Ross), Anthony, Michela (Ryan), Ali, Amanda (James), Samantha (Dave), Addison (Jordan), Brandon (Anna Marie), Drake Jr. (Josh), Niquo (Lindsey), Patrick, Christopher, Robbie, Mariah (Jason), Marissa, Amber (Nick), Alana (Justin), Ryan (Samantha), Deono, Anna, Ricky, Mia (Levi), Ella, Sam; great grandchildren, Soarah, Averie, Kash, Kolten, Jaden, Mason, Ainsley, Ashlyn, Lavender, Raquel, Aria, Brinley, Maverick, Harlow, Jevne, Poppy and Oliver; son-in-law, Mark Bartell; brothers and sisters, including Cris (Adam) Aguilar of Fennville; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be Friday, July 25, 2025, from 6pm – 8pm (wake prayers from 8pm – 8:30pm) at Dykstra Funeral Home – Northwood Chapel, 295 Douglas Avenue in Holland. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church.

A funeral Mass will be at 1pm, along with a pre-mass visitation from 12pm to 12:45pm Saturday, July 26, 2025, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 171 West 13th Street in Holland, Father Luis Garcia will be officiating. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens at 3:45pm.

To sign an on-line registry or leave a memory please visit www.dykstrafuneralhome.com

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