Dr. Derick J. Lenters passed away peacefully at his home after a brief illness, on the morning of October 6, surrounded by his family.
Derick was born in Holland, MI on November 13, 1936, to Derk and Harmina Lenters, younger brother to Hannah Grace Lenters Gosaynie. After graduation from Holland Christian High School and Hope College, he went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School in 1962.
On his last day of medical school, Derick made the very fortunate decision to attend a somewhat optional class (rather than sleeping in) at which he met the love of his life, Diane Marie Howe, who was completing her training in Occupational Therapy at UM. They married in 1963 and went on to travel the country for his military service in the Coast Guard – first spending time in Cape May, NJ and then in Seattle, WA. Derick then decided to pursue his medical career in Obstetrics and Gynecology, and they soon returned to Michigan. He completed his OB/gyn residency at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, MI.
Derick then returned with his family to Holland in July of 1970 to begin 45 years on the staff of Holland Hospital in the department of OB/gyn, serving as chairman for several years, and then as Chief of Staff of Holland Hospital. Throughout his career he had the privilege of bringing more than 5000 newborns into the world! He was a Diplomate of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, member of the American Medical Association, Michigan State Medical Society, and Ottawa County Medical Society. Dr. Lenters practiced medicine until the age of 78 years young, retiring on Doctors’ Day in 2016.
Derick was a long-standing member of Graafschap Christian Reformed Church. His pioneer ancestor, Derk Lenters, arrived at age 14 in 1847 with his uncle Johannes Schrotenboer as some of the founding members of Graafschap Church.
Derick is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Diane Marie Howe Lenters, children Kathryn Rudman (Nate) of Centerville, MA, John Lenters (Amanda) of Grand Rapids, MN, and Jennifer Lyford (Mark) of Laramie, WY. He was the beloved grandfather of Derk, Molly, Halle, and Rebecca. He was predeceased by his sister Hannah Lenters Gosaynie, and his parents Derk and Harmina Lenters.
Derick loved cars, especially his prized Volkswagen Scirocco and long hours of driving (the scenic route always being his favorite!) In fact, he was known to drive out to see the kids for lunch or a quick Michigan or Pats game and then drive back home. He also was known to travel by car cross-country and especially enjoyed trips out west to Wyoming, Montana, and Washington.
He loved his Michigan Wolverines, being a season ticket holder for many, many years. His fondness for everything UM was passed down through the family, including to the 3rd generation Lenters medical student currently at his alma mater.
He also loved music, especially classical music. Besides encouraging his children and grandchildren in their musical ambitions, he had an extensive collection of vinyl, cassette tapes and CD’s and educated himself on composers and conductors better than the average college music major!
Derick leaves behind an enduring legacy of gentle kindness, generosity, and going above and beyond for someone in need.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who provided such kind, compassionate care for Derick through Hospice of Holland, Holland Hospital, the Warm Friend, Resthaven, and EMS services.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Derick’s honor to Hope College, the University of Michigan Medical School, Holland Hospital, or Graafschap CRC. A memorial service is planned for Saturday, November 21, 2026, at 11am at the Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St. Holland. Visitation will be 10:00-10:45 am prior to the service. Following the service a light luncheon will be served, after which burial will be held at the East Saugatuck Cemetery at the Lenters’ family plot.
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