Lois Dannenberg

Every once in a while, one encounters an individual whose life was filled with so much love and joy that it is evident this person lived a life that was truly blessed. Lois H. Dannenberg was one of these people. She spent many years giving and receiving love. A cherished mother, wife, and friend, Lois lived her life with an open heart and a giving spirit.

The 1930's are a notoriously frightening time in United States history. After the collapse of the stock market in 1929, the United States found itself facing a time of great change and hardships, but also a time that built strength and perseverance. With Herbert Hoover in the White House, Babe Ruth wowing the world on the baseball field, and Micky Mouse making his first appearances in comic strips, this was a time of many beginnings. In Holland Michigan, Martin and Delia (Folkert) Sale were preparing their home for the beginning of a new life. On March 28, 1930, a cold, winter day in Michigan, Martin and Delia welcomed their fourth child, Lois, into the world.

Growing up with her four siblings, Julius, Mike, Milly, and Marla, Lois led a normal childhood. Her family remained in Holland throughout her youth, and Lois graduated from Holland High School. When Lois was 18, she decided to take a camping trip to Holland State Park. Though she didn't know it at the time, this trip would change her life. While there, she met fellow camper Carl Dannenberg. Before long, it became evident that this man was something special. The two dated for two years, and soon decided that they would spend their lives together. On August 22, 1950, Lois Sale became Mrs. Carl Dannenberg during a ceremony held in her parent's home.

Lois lived a happy life, enjoying sewing, playing the piano and reading. She worked for Holland Furnace and Hekman Rusk before she and Carl were blessed with the births of their children. The couple would have four children, Larry, Mark, Thomas, and Mary. Tragedy struck the family when Thomas died from injuries sustained in an automobile accident in 1961. Lois and the family persevered through this time with their strong faith.

She worked part time for Family Fare and Borr's Bootery after her children were born. Although Lois's main occupation for many years was taking care of her family. She loved being a mother, and took great joy in raising the kids and spending time with her loved ones.

The family lived many happy years together, and made many memories that continue to be cherished. They loved to camp, and had many years of family fun at the cottage at Hutchins Lake. As Lois met her husband while camping, it is only fitting that she enjoyed spending time out doors, and this included fishing. Lois also enjoyed getting her hands dirty in the art studio, and liked to be involved in ceramics and pottery.

Lois led an active life throughout her retirement. She and Carl spent their newly acquired free- time together by traveling in their motor home, where they enjoyed seeing the sights together. From Pentwater to Florida, the two loved to camp and enjoy their free-time. Lois also spent her time volunteering at Maplewood Reformed Church where she was an active member. Furthermore, Lois was a member of the Ladies Guild. She gave many hours of her time to help at her church, and enjoyed it thoroughly.

On Wednesday, February 11, 2009, Lois H. Dannenberg died in her home. She lived a life full of love, both given and received, and was truly a blessing to those who knew her. A caring mother, wife, and friend, Lois was a happy, fun-loving individual who lived her life to the fullest.

Lois was preceeded in death by her son, Thomas, in 1961; a grandson, Christopher Dannenberg in 2005, and an infant grandson. Surviving are her husband of 58 years, Carl; children, Larry (Laurien) Dannenberg, of Holland, Mark (Jan) Dannenberg, of Jenison, and Mary (Timm) VanDeBurg, of Holland; grandchildren, Steven, Amanda, Katelyn, Kennedy and Jade Dannenberg, Bianca (Scott) Tompsett, Brittany and Alexa Dannenberg, Nicole (Sam) Pearson, Miranda, Kailey, and Brooks VanDeBurg; Great Grandchildren, Hannah and Madelyn Pearson; Brother, Julius (Carolyn) Sale; sisters, Millie (Richmond) Jones and Marla Suzanne; In-laws, Ron (Gloria) Dannenberg, Barb (Ron) Dreyer, Darlene Quintero. Nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services are scheduled for Friday, 11:00a.m., at Maplewood Reformed Church. Officiating will be the Rev. Carl Balk. Burial will be in Graafschap Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 7-9p.m. at the church, and Friday from 10:00-11:00a.m. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Association of West Michigan.

For more information, please visit www.lifestorynet.com, where you can sign her online guest book and share a memory or photo with her family.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Psalm 23