Karen Vander Sluis, age 82, of Holland, passed away Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Riley’s Grove Assisted Living and Memory Care in Zeeland. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, and her presence will be deeply missed.
Karen grew up in Holland, MI where she met her husband Merle (Vander Sluis) at Holland Christian High School. Karen completed two Bachelor of Science degrees, in Nursing and Health Science at WMU. Upon university graduation, they married and began their first adventure together in the Peace Corps stationed in India, where they realized a passion for living in different cultures and helping others. This passion led to travel/living in many other countries where she was a nurse, an educator and missionary. Karen always had an optimism and resilience in whatever she did, and you would never catch her without a smile on her face. Karen loved to spend time with her family and friends and would always make you feel important. She enjoyed working with her hands sewing/quilting and renewing furniture. Those who knew Karen will cherish all the memories and time we had with her.
Karen is survived by her children Daniel (Cathy) Vander Sluis, Elizabeth (Robert) Brower; grandchildren, Sarah Vander Sluis, Nathan Vander Sluis, Madeline (Cameron) Hofmockel, Connor Brower, Thorin Brower, Adrian Brower; great grandchild, Declan Hofmockel; siblings, Larry (Carol) Homkes, Rick (Darlene) Homkes; sister in-law, Jan Homkes, and several nieces and nephews.
Karen was preceded in death by her husband Merle, her parents Russel and Lois Homkes, and her siblings Marilee Vroon, Forrest Homkes, and Bruce Homkes.
A memorial service is planned for 10:00am Saturday, November 21, 2026, at Fellowship Reformed Church, 2165 W Lakewood Blvd., Holland, 49424. Rev. Tierra Marshall-Thompson and Rev. James Baar will officiate. Burial will be in Lakewood Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for 4:00-6:00pm Friday, November 20, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E 16th St., Holland.
Memorial contributions may be given in honor to:
Rehoboth Christian Schools; https://www.rcsnm.org/support-us/gifts-in-memory.cfm
OR Hospice of Holland (https://www.hollandhospice.org/ways-to-give/hospice-donations/)
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